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

Rashford did not play against Shabbak, but this did not prevent Manchester United fans from singing his name once again. For the first time in nearly two years, the Stretford End sang Rashford's song, ending with the lyrics "Like Manchester, Rashford is red".

During Thursday evening's warm-up, among all the substitutes, Rashford received the loudest applause from Old Trafford's most famous stand. Fans had already welcomed him two weeks earlier, following his positive return performance against Ipswich.

At the midpoint of the second half, Carrick signalled to teenagers Shea Lacey and Harry Amass that they would be the last two substitutes to enter. Carrick also had a brief word with Rashford as he returned to the bench.

One can speculate that Carrick said something like: "We'll need you on Sunday", or words to that effect.

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

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

"It's evident from his performance. He was very threatening again in the last match, unfortunately he couldn't do more, but he was really very threatening.

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

"He's done very well in many aspects, and he's quickly readapted to the squad.

"It's good to keep Rashford fresh for the weekend."

The fact that Manchester United rested Rashford for the big match against Manchester City speaks volumes about his positive form since his return.

His mental state stands in stark contrast to the 18 months of ups and downs following his five-year contract signing in July 2023.

The Manchester United fans' song the midweek before the derby came at just the right moment. For Rashford, born in Wythenshawe, this match holds particular significance.

Sources within Manchester United say that Rashford has done everything possible to complete his return since reporting to the pre-season training camp in Ireland in early August.

A source close to the club said: "Whether it's attitude or commitment, he's given his all."

The long-serving staff have also noticed that Rashford has been at his most positive and smiley in his interactions with them for years. The 28-year-old is also among the first to arrive at training.

No one is getting carried away with excessive optimism too soon. Rashford has started only two matches so far, but he was Manchester United's best player against Everton, only to be substituted in the 70th minute in a somewhat puzzling decision.

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

If Amorim were still at the club, Rashford's return would not have been possible. He first set foot five weeks ago at Manchester United's £50 million training facility, which opened last August.

Manchester United has denied a rumour that Rashford sang a welcome song at Carrington like 15-year-old JJ Gabriel.

Perhaps deliberately, since Rashford's return, he has not had a fixed defensive partner in Manchester United's backline.

Against Shabbak, Lisandro Martínez and Mainoo were alongside him.

Against Everton, Lisandro Martínez and Yoro were on his flanks; against Ipswich and Hull City, Tielemans and Mbeumo were alongside him.

Manchester United was surprised that Barcelona did not sign Rashford. At the time he was valued at only £26 million, yet Barcelona instead signed fellow English winger Anthony Gordon for £69.3 million. Rashford's other former club, Aston Villa, opted for Garnacho, a left winger he had played alongside.

But Rashford is home.

He joined Manchester United's academy at age 7, making it 21 years with the club. His lucrative contract of £325,000 per week, which runs until 2028, remains in effect. Rashford has also added his new shirt number "9" to the tattoos documenting the shirts he has worn for the club and England.

Rashford has every opportunity to represent England in the upcoming European Championships and World Cups. Tuchel will announce the squad for the next four Nations League matches next week, and Rashford has always been his preferred choice.

Manchester United fans have also welcomed him back.

Tradotto dall'IA.

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