Manchester United issues a statement addressing media reports concerning Marcus Rashford.

Manchester United has issued a statement regarding media reports concerning Marcus Rashford.

Rashford was reportedly seen at nightclubs in Belfast on Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Consequently, he was absent from training on Friday due to illness. According to a report from The Athletic, the 26-year-old visited Lavery’s Bar on Wednesday night before heading to Thompsons Garage nightclub the following day.

When asked about the situation ahead of Sunday’s match against Newport, Erik ten Hag declined to provide specifics but stated, “He reported ill. Let’s say, it’s an internal matter. I’ll handle it. It’s an internal matter.”

According to The Athletic, Marcus Rashford and his agent Dwaine Maynard met with football director John Murtough and Erik ten Hag at Carrington on Monday morning to address the events of the previous week in Northern Ireland.

Later that evening, Manchester United issued a statement regarding Rashford’s situation, confirming that he has resumed training and will be eligible for selection in Thursday’s match against Wolves.

“Marcus has acknowledged his actions and taken responsibility,” the statement read. “The matter has been handled internally as a disciplinary issue, which has now been resolved.”

According to The Sun, Rashford is set to be fined two weeks’ wages, amounting to £650,000.

Several individuals, including former Newcastle United striker Alan Shearer, have voiced their opinions on Rashford’s absence. Shearer, speaking to BBC Sport after Erik ten Hag’s pre-match interview on Sunday, urged Rashford not to squander his talent.

“If it’s being dealt with internally, there must be a reason,” Shearer stated. “Marcus Rashford possesses immense talent, but there appears to be an issue – whether it’s personal or related to his relationship with the club.”

“He can’t keep wasting his talent like this. He needs strong management to intervene and make him realize the consequences. With only four goals this season compared to thirty last season, it’s clear something needs to change. Rashford will be available for selection against Wolves.”