Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has admitted that he was not surprised by Marcus Rashford's exclusion from England's 26-man squad for Euro 2024.
Rashford had his most prolific campaign during the Dutchman’s first year at Old Trafford, but he struggled to maintain that form last season, and was consequently left out of Gareth Southgate’s side for the tournament in Germany.
In January, it was reported that the striker missed training before an FA Cup match after being seen drinking in Belfast. Thereafter, Rashford scored only four league goals, contributing to Man Utd's worst-ever Premier League finish.
How England Plan To Win Euro 2024 - Tactical Preview
Despite this, many were surprised to see Rashford left out of Southgate's squad for Euro 2024, but Ten Hag has claimed he can see the reason why he was left out.
The Dutchman was also asked about another high-profile omission, Jack Grealish, who was left out of the squad after struggling to find a place in the starting line-up at Manchester City.
“Grealish and Rashford out? They were both lacking this season, it’s clear,” he told NOS Studio Voetbal.
“And when you are lacking, you risk not getting picked for your country.”
The former Ajax coach also spoke about how Manchester United chiefs caught up to him while he was holidaying with his wife in Ibiza to tell him that he had kept his place at Old Trafford, even though they had interviewed other candidates about replacing him.
“Manchester United flew to me in Ibiza to tell me that I was gonna stay. So they disturbed my holiday, they suddenly stood at my doorstep,” he said.
“Man United have told me that they spoke with Thomas Tuchel, yes. They said they eventually came to the conclusion that they already have the best manager.”
More stories
We have a guide on how to get Euro 2024 tickets if you're still looking to go to the tournament. We have the run-down on Euro 2024 stadiums, with info on host cities, capacities, and everything you need to know.
We have a list of the Euro 2024 favourites, with best odds on nations to win European Championship in Germany, while these are the best Euros games ever and these are the best pundits ever. With England set to be one of the favourites, meanwhile, we've analysed what the pathway to the final could look like for the Three Lions.
Get a free live stream to watch Euro 2024 from anywhere in the world ahead of the summer's big tournament
‘Managing Leeds? It was an option that appeared, but it wasn’t the right timing. I decided it wasn’t a good idea to leave the club I was at mid-season’: Premier League boss admits to turning down opportunity to replace Jesse Marsch in 2023
‘Ruben Amorim could have waited for Real Madrid and had a better chance to be successful – to have joined Manchester United, he must be convinced in his own ability’ Former Old Trafford coach’s verdict on new boss
