Regardless of what happens, adding Marcus Rashford in January was a success | OneFootball

It has been an incredible season for Aston Villa so far. There have been many moments that allowed those backing AVFC to throw caution to the wind and dream of what is possible. A lot of that has come due to the acquisition of Marcus Rashford.

Many enjoy poking fun at him and being unfairly, overly critical of the attacker. It is beyond dispute, however, that Rashford looks improved and at home under Unai Emery. His inclusion on this roster has shown supporters what is possible. Because of him, along with the great squad that has been assembled, Villa are able to legitimately make a push for Champions League qualification in the Premier League, go far in the FA Cup, and have advanced in the European competition in the new CL format.

The January transfer moves have all proven successful and showed a lot of the willingness of Emery and Monchi. Focusing on Rashford, he looks like someone who can be one of the best attacking players in space when he's afforded that opportunity.

There is something of a saga around how Villa will potentially secure his services long-term, which will likely be far from straightforward. Keeping him through the summer, though, would be a welcome continued option for Emery to be able to turn to.

He's a confident penalty taker, is looking more confident in one-on-one situations, and is starting to create for others on a consistent basis. Add that he'll now have been used to playing well and then needing to come off the bench or miss action for whatever reason; it seems like there is something of a mutual understanding between player and club at the moment.

Test run has worked out at Aston Villa

This aspect is what has made his addition to the club a worthwhile one. The relationship with Manchester United was a strained one. Under Emery, Rashford has been given the chance to put his best foot forward, and the Villa boss's faith in the attacker has been rewarded.