Why is Marcus Rashford not playing? England forward benched vs. Senegal

2022-12-04
4 min read
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Any front-three picked from England's World Cup squad would be a formidable force but Three Lions fans were surprised by one omission against Senegal in the Round of 16.

Gareth Southgate named Marcus Rashford as one of his substitutes as England took on the African champions for a place in the quarter-finals. 

The Manchester United star was joint top-scorer at the World Cup before the last-16 phase began, and he was looking sharp on the ball in Qatar. 

England supporters might be scratching their heads but they'll be desperate for Southgate's pick to pay off and setup a clash with France.

MORE: England vs Senegal live: World Cup score, highlights, result

Why is Marcus Rashford not playing?

Rashford's performance against Wales in England's final Group B match had convinced many that he would start the next match. 

However, Southgate has left him out of the starting lineup against Senegal, even though his attacking options were diminished by Raheem Sterling's unavailability for personal reasons. The Chelsea forward is dealing with a family matter. 

While the centre-forward role is locked down by Harry Kane, Southgate has picked a different style of winger out-wide, perhaps responding to the strengths and weaknesses of Senegal's defence. 

MORE: England's complete 26-man World Cup squad

Who is playing in place of Rashford?

Arsenal's Bukayo Saka has taken Rashford's place in the lineup, though Rashford played on the left wing against Wales. Phil Foden will start there against Senegal, opposite Saka.

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Saka has been on phenomenal form in the Premier League this season and has become a favourite of Southgate's, starting the first two Group B matches against Iran and USA.

MORE: Why England have been taking the knee at the World Cup

How has Gareth Southgate used Rashford?

Few would have predicted Rashford to be starting matches for England at this World Cup, with the likes of Foden and Saka on better form for their clubs. 

However, Rashford has forced himself into the conversation by taking his opportunities as a substitute. 

The Man United forward replaced Saka in the second-half against Iran and again the USA, scoring in the first match. Those performances convinced Southgate that Rashford was ready to start the Wales game.

Rashford proved the England boss right with two fantastic goals – the first a stunning free-kick, followed by a powerful drive after skilfully cutting in from the right. 

MORE: England's World Cup tournament history

Marcus Rashford World Cup goals, games

Rashford scored his first World Cup goal against Iran, before adding two more against Wales. 

It's his second appearances at the World Cup, after he featured in six matches as England charged to the semi-finals four years ago. However, only one of those appearances came as a starter. 

Tournament Games (starts) Goals/Assists
2018, Russia 6 (1) 0/0
2022, Qatar 3 (1)* 3/0*

*Correct before last-16