Man Utd star was ‘worth the risk’: Owen sends a message to Southgate | OneFootball

Manchester United star Marcus Rashford has been left out of England’s provisional squad for the 2024 European Championship.

United trio Luke Shaw, Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire were picked in the 33-man provisional squad by manager Gareth Southgate.

Former England striker Michael Owen expressed surprise at the decision to omit Rashford, saying he had has never let England down.

A wake-up call for Marcus Rashford

Rashford enjoyed a dazzling 2022/23 season for the Red Devils, netting an impressive 30 goals across all competitions.

He deservedly won United’s Player of the Year award and was also rewarded with a new five-year deal with a significant raise.

However, he has failed to maintain his form this campaign, bagging only eight goals and five assists.

Southgate chose merit over reputation, omitting big names and avoiding mediocrity in his provisional squad selection.

However, he should have maintained the same standards throughout his squad selection process.

Jack Grealish’s selection over Rashford sparks debate. The former Aston Villa man has tallied three goals and three assists across all competitions this season.

Southgate previously showed a lack of trust in Rashford during the Qatar World Cup. He featured for merely 137 minutes but hit three goals.

Hopefully, Rashford could use his exclusion as a wake-up call and put his best foot forward next season.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com.