Manchester United have faced intense criticism for the decision to hand Marcus Rashford a bumper new contract less than two years before shipping him out to Aston Villa. The 27-year-old forward had just produced a career-best 2022/23 season under Erik ten Hag to earn the £300,000-a-week deal until 2028.

Marcus Rashford has found his form at Aston Villa with key assists and performances. Can he continue his revival and help Villa push for Premier League success?

It is not hyperbolic to suggest that Marcus Rashford’s four months at Aston Villa are the most crucial of his career. He has had rapid rises, none more so than the braces he scored in his first two Manchester United games,