Alan Shearer doesn't back down on Marcus Rashford criticism and cites 'simple' solution for Manchester United striker
Premier League legend Alan Shearer has insisted he will not change any of the constructive criticism he has given Marcus Rashford.
The Manchester United striker scored his first goal in 189 days on Saturday, netting the Red Devils' second goal in their 3-0 away win against Southampton.
The 26-year-old's goal came after a difficult moment on the pitch.
He was left out of England's squad for Euro 2024 and again for Nations League clashes against the Republic of Ireland and Finland this month.
Last week, according to The selfAn insider source claimed Rashford felt “intimidated” by former Premier League stars who commented that he was struggling to emulate the electric form he had in 2022/23 that saw him score 30 goals and 11 assists in all competitions.
But when Shearer, Gary Lineker and Micah Richards spoke about Rashford on their latest episode of The rest is for everyoneeitherT-ball PodcastShearer praised the former England star for his goal but still reaffirmed his previous opinion.
Lineker said: “We spoke about Rashford and there was a little leak that Marcus Rashford is not happy with the criticism he has been receiving.
“They think it's a bit unfair, particularly from ex-players, ex-Manchester United players as well.
“You’ve been one of them, Alan. We’ve covered it briefly because we never have that much time on Match of the Day. What do you think?”
Shearer then responded: “I wouldn't change anything I've said.
“He's set himself very high standards, you know? He's a very good player, he's got a massive contract at Manchester United and he hasn't played as well as he could or has in the past.
“And when that's the case, at a big football club, when you're a big name, you're going to get criticised.
4
“And he did, but he doesn't get criticised for performances like yesterday, you know? When he gets back and runs, takes on players and scores his goal.
“He looked like a very good player yesterday.”
Shearer went on to suggest a simple solution to stop the criticism.
“Now he has to do that for the rest of the season,” he said, referring to his performance at St Mary's.
“There was a reason I said it last night. There's a reason I wasn't in the England squad.
“It's not just the pundits who criticise him. Other players have surpassed him from where he was a couple of years ago and there's no doubt he's got talent, but that has to be a regular player.”
4
4
“That has to happen every week, and not just against Southampton, as it did. And then they won’t criticise him. It’s quite simple, isn’t it?”
Shearer did not mince his words when assessing Rashford's performance in the 2-1 defeat to Brighton before the international break.
Rashford found himself offside at the AMEX, and despite Lineker giving him credit for trying to make runs, Shearer wouldn't allow it.
“Yes, but he's not a youngster anymore,” he said. “He has to understand the position and look across the pitch when he can see everything, then he shouldn't be offside.”
Manchester United return to action against Barnsley in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday, hosting the League One side at Old Trafford. Live on talkSPORT 2.
JOIN THE DUGOUT
Have your say on all things talkSPORT by joining 'THE DUGOUT' – our new panel of listeners.
Our aim is to take a deeper look at your perspectives and make sure talkSPORT is the best it can be. Your voice matters and we want to hear it!
Present your innovative ideas and participate in fun locker room polls, surveys and debates.
Just by joining, you'll be entered into a draw to win one of four £50 Amazon vouchers, and you'll be entered into another draw for every survey you complete afterwards.
To join 'The DUGOUT' panel, please Click here.
