Erik Ten Hag Explains Why He Dropped Marcus Rashford for Man United vs Chelsea Clash

• Marcus Rashford was not part of Manchester United's starting XI against Chelsea
• Rashford was dropped to the bench following his poor performance vs Newcastle
• The England international has scored only two Premier League goals this season

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has explained his decision to bench Marcus Rashford during their Premier League clash against rivals Chelsea.

Rashford has endured a frustrating start to the 2023/24 season, with the forward currently struggling for form.

Metro UK reports that the Englishman came under immense criticism last weekend after a lacklustre performance during United's 1-0 defeat against Newcastle.

While ten Hag defended Rashford after the criticism, he had no place for him in his starting XI during Chelsea's visit to Old Trafford on Wednesday night.

The Dutchman opted for a front three of Antony, Alejandro Garnacho, and Rasmus Hojlund, with Anthony Martial, who clashed with the manager, also dropped.

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Why Rashford was benched vs Chelsea

Erik ten Hag has now defended his decision to leave out Rashford from his starting lineup, with the tactician disclosing it was a tactical move.

According to the United boss, the move was simply a case of rotating his squad after a busy fixture schedule.

"No, we played bad as a team so we can’t blame individuals for that," he said when asked if hde dropped Rashford due to his poor performance vs Newcastle.

"It’s part of rotation, and I think we have a very good, energised frontline. Everyone has to be ready and we do it as a team, as a dressing room," he added, per The Mirror.

Meanwhile, ten Hag's tactical decision worked in his favour, with Scott McTominay netting a brace to ease pressure on him.

Keane wants Rashford to lead by example

Earlier, Sports Brief reported on former Man United captain Roy Keane urging Rashford to show his leadership qualities and be a good example to the younger United players.

“He must lead by example. He's one of the most experienced players in this locker room, and if he doesn't lead by example, it's not good," he said.