Marcus Rashford returned to the starting XI against Ipswich Town on Sunday after spending the previous two seasons away from Old Trafford on loan.
His time at United had looked close to finished under Ruben Amorim, but Michael Carrick has given the forward a fresh opportunity.
Ashley Young, who played alongside Rashford at United, believes that change in management has made a big difference.
Young believes Marcus Rashford can get his Manchester United career moving again after being handed his first start for the club since December 2024.
Young backs Marcus Rashford to thrive
Speaking to Sky Sports, Young said Michael Carrick would have made it clear to Marcus Rashford from the start that he remained part of his plans.
‘I think we saw under Ruben Amorim, he wasn’t part of his plans. Carras [Michael Carrick] would have straight away had a conversation with him in pre-season to say to him – you’re going to be part of my plans, part of the big plan of the season.’
For Young, what happens next is largely in Rashford’s hands.
“As long as you go out there and produce, I can’t see him not being in the team.”
Marcus Rashford spent last season on loan at Barcelona after previously joining Aston Villa on a temporary deal. Barcelona ultimately decided against making his move permanent, leaving him back in Manchester this summer.
“Being able to train with him, to play with him, he’s a fantastic footballer.”
The former Manchester United defender also accepts that Rashford has had a difficult period.
“Things have not gone right in the last couple of seasons, but if he starts well this campaign, I’m sure that he can go on and just fly.”
