According to a recent report from The Sun, long-serving Manchester United staff have noticed that Rashford's return marks his best period of form.

Rashford did not play against Shahab Al-Bakur, but that did not stop Manchester United fans from singing his name again. For the first time in nearly two years, the Stretford End sang Rashford's anthem, ending with the lyrics "Just like Manchester, Rashford is red."

During the warm-up on Thursday night, among all the substitute players, Rashford received the loudest applause from Old Trafford's most famous stand. Fans had applauded him two weeks earlier following his positive performance in his return match against Ipswich.

In the second half, Carrick signalled to 19-year-olds Shea Lacey and Harry Amass that they would be the final two substitutes to come on. Carrick also spoke briefly with Rashford as he jogged back to the bench.

It can be assumed that Carrick said something like, "We'll need you on Sunday," or similar words.

The Manchester derby is Carrick's biggest test in his eight months as manager.

Carrick said: "I'm very pleased with Rashford, very pleased in many ways.

"It's clear from his performances. He was a threat again in the last match; unfortunately, he couldn't score more, but he was definitely a threat.

"I don't know what else to say, we're just happy to have him.

"He's doing a lot of things well, and he's adapting back to the team quickly.

"It made sense to keep Rashford's energy fresh for the weekend."

Manchester United resting Rashford for the big match against Manchester City this weekend shows how positive his performances have been since his return.

His mental state contrasts sharply with the inconsistent period during the 18 months following his five-year contract signing in July 2023.

The singing from Manchester United fans midweek ahead of the derby comes at a perfect time. For Rashford, born in Wythenshawe, this match is particularly significant.

Insiders at Manchester United say Rashford has been doing everything right since reporting to the training camp in Ireland in early August.

A source close to the club said: "He's been doing the best he can, both in terms of attitude and commitment."

Long-serving staff have also noted that Rashford is in the most positive state of mind and smiles when interacting with them in recent years. The 27-year-old has also been among the first to arrive at the training ground.

Nobody should get too optimistic too quickly. Rashford has only started two matches so far, but he was Manchester United's best player against Everton, though the decision to substitute him in the 70th minute was somewhat puzzling.

Carrick's presence has made Rashford's return much smoother. Carrick was captain when Rashford made his debut, and they were teammates for over two years before Carrick coached him for three and a half years.

If Amorim were still at the club, Rashford's return would not have happened. He only set foot in Manchester United's £50 million training centre for the first time last month, five weeks after it opened.

Manchester United dismissed rumours that Rashford sang a welcome song at Carrington like 15-year-old JJ Gabriel.

Perhaps intentionally, since Rashford's return, he has had no fixed partner in Manchester United's dressing room.

Against Shahab Al-Bakur, Håven and Mainoo were beside him.

Against Everton, Håven and Yoro were on either side; against Ipswich and Hull City, Tielemans and Mbeumo played alongside him.

Manchester United were surprised Barcelona did not sign Rashford. He was valued at only £26 million at the time, but Barcelona instead bought his English teammate Anthony Gordon for £69.3 million. His former club Aston Villa chose Garnacho, another left winger who also played with him.

But Rashford is home now.

He joined Manchester United's academy at age seven, marking 21 years with the club. His high weekly salary of £325,000, valid until 2028, remains active. Rashford has also added his new number "9" to his tattoo, which records the shirt numbers he has worn for club and country.

Rashford has every opportunity to represent England at the next European Championship and World Cup. Tuchel will announce his squad for the next four Nations League matches next week, and Rashford remains a favourite.

Manchester United fans have welcomed him back too.

Diterjemahkan oleh AI.

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