Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford scored a sensational opening goal against arch-rivals Manchester City – minutes after former Cityzens defender Micah Richards said his body language “at times doesn’t look great”.
Rashford lashed in his sixth goal in a Manchester derby from 25 yards, silencing the home crowd in a week when he earned attention for a column addressing his media critics titled ‘Who I Really Am’.
The 26-year-old suggested that rather than presenting an accurate version of events, certain reports focused on “my body language, and questioning my morals, and speculating about my family, and my football future.”
Speaking before United made a dream start against City in the Premier League on Sunday, Richards praised Rashford’s article and said his influence on the game would depend on his ability to seize limited time in possession.
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“It was a good interview – open and honest,” former England international Richards told Sky Sports, adding that United record scorer Wayne Rooney had provided insights into Rashford’s character.
“It’s difficult when people are questioning your body language which, at times, doesn’t look great.
“Wayne Rooney said he’s not that type – he’s shy, almost, at times. He’s got the pace and ability, it’s just whether he can show it when he’s on the ball.”
Marcus Rashford that is SENSATIONAL! 🔥🤯 pic.twitter.com/FW6jYbGdhe
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) March 3, 2024
Rashford goal vs City continues eventful week
In a wide-ranging piece in The Players’ Tribune, Rashford – United’s top-scorer with 30 goals last season – spoke about the trying times and press scrutiny he has faced since netting twice on his debut in 2016.
“It can’t just be about me as a 26-year-old lad on a night out, or a lad getting a parking ticket,” said the United academy product.
“It’s got to be about how much my car costs, guessing my weekly salary, my jewelry or even my tattoos.
“It’s got to be about my body language, and questioning my morals, and speculating about my family, and my football future.
“There’s a tone to it that you don’t get with all footballers. Let’s just leave it at that.”
