Giving the Manchester United armband to Marcus Rashford may be the catalyst for him to get back into shape.
That’s according to former United player Dimitar Berbatov as he assesses Erik ten Hag’s captaincy characteristics for his team’s match against Liverpool on Sunday afternoon. Bruno Fernandes will miss the upcoming clash due to suspension after receiving five yellow cards in the Premier League this season.
Raphael Varane, Victor Lindelof and Casemiro have controlled United at other times in this crusade when Fernandes was not on the pitch. However, amid growing injury concerns, particularly Lindelof and Casemiro, and the lack of recent minutes for Varane, there is no prominent candidate for the captaincy.
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Rashford has compatibility to play at Anfield after illness, but his lack of form has seen him fall recently, with the England striker scoring just two goals for United in 20 games this season. However, according to Berbatov, giving the armband to Rashford may be in his best interest.
Berbatov told bookmaker Betfair: “We know [Fernandes] is playing, that’s another factor to be resolved. United will have to hope that whoever replaces him can do the job, but it’s a blow for them.
“Sometimes when you treat a player who is going through a difficult time, it is smart to show him religion. You have to show religion in Marcus Rashford, maybe he is the captain of the game.
“He can be a definite check for him to lead the team. Perhaps Rashford realises that this is his chance to be a leader and United’s biggest star. These moments can cheer up players, who want an arm around their shoulders.
“It would be the moment when Rashford would realize that football is not a fairy tale, it is a genuine life and he wants to grow to become the most important man at the club. I have noticed players who want this opportunity, that has happened “. “For me, my career. Besides, we rarely want those gestures. “