Premier League
Michael Owen says Rashford looks miserable under Michael Carrick
At Craven Cottage in London on Sunday, the atmosphere was tense as Marcus Rashford drifted across the left wing, his shoulders hunched and his expression glum. Former Old Trafford striker Michael Owen watched from the stands, noting the England international’s body language was unusually subdued.
Owen's blunt assessment
Owen told, as relayed by Metro, that Rashford “has been probably the quietest of those attackers”. He added, “He was quiet again today in his body language, just the glum face. The former United striker said the winger “doesn’t seem to be loving his football”, calling it a “permanent frustration”.
Despite the criticism, Owen praised Rashford’s physical gifts. “He is so tall, such a great athlete. His touch and his skill levels are unbelievable, he’s quick,” he said, but warned that without the right mentality “you can’t go far”. He insisted the 28‑year‑old “has everything … but the mental side is missing”.
Match details and Carrick's lineup
Manchester United drew 1‑1 with Fulham away at Craven Cottage on Sunday in the Premier League. Rashford started for Man Utd, taking his favoured left wing, and was substituted after 77 minutes having recorded two of his six shots on target and creating four chances.
Manager Michael Carrick, a former United midfielder, fielded Matheus Cunha as the number nine after Slovenia striker Benjamin Sesko’s injury, with Bryan Mbeumo on the left wing and Bruno Fernandes in the number‑10 role. The line‑up reflected Carrick’s attempt to balance experience and youth despite the absence of Sesko.
Future options and mental aspect
Owen believes that once Sesko returns to full fitness, Rashford could be dropped. “There’s a demand for Benjamin Sesko to come back in and start, injury permitting. If that happens, Cunha is going to go on the left and Rashford would be the weak link in that attack as things stand,” he explained.
He also reflected on Rashford’s loan to Barcelona, calling it “the last chance saloon”. Owen said he “couldn’t believe his luck getting a team like Barcelona” and noted United later spent fortunes to replace him by buying Anthony Gordon. “He’s done okay, but only okay,” Owen concluded, urging the 28‑year‑old to find confidence and enjoy the game again. Complete analysis suggests United’s fortunes may hinge on Rashford rediscovering his joy.