Marcus Rashford is back in the England starting XI as new coach Thomas Tuchel gave the attacker the nod for Friday's match against Albania.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

• Tuchel hands Rashford start against Albania
• Winger's first Three Lions game in a year
• Decision prompted mixed reaction from fans

• Table of Contents

  Toggle

  WHAT HAPPENED?

  Rashford has enjoyed a bright run since joining Aston Villa on loan form Manchester United in January, resulting in Tuchel calling him up for his first matches as Three Lions boss. The 27-year-old was picked to start in the opening game of the World Cup qualifiers at Wembley on Friday, and Tuchel's decision received mixed reviews on social media.

Advertisement

• Getty Images Sport
  

  WHAT THE FANS ARE SAYING

  "Star man is back," wrote @Utddoja, later saying: "Rashford is the face of Tuchel’s first England game but people will try convince you he’s a finished player."

  Journalist Simon Stone said on X: "Move to Aston Villa has reignited Marcus Rashford’s career. Glad he is enjoying his football again."

  "That's a big vote of confidence for Marcus Rashford to start for England against Albania in Thomas Tuchel's first match," said @jonathandveal83. "He's looked very bright in parts for Aston Villa, but others have played more consistently over the past few months."

  @RyanDry93 wrote: "Kyle Walker and Marcus Rashford starting for England in 2025 🥴🥴🥴🥴".

  "Rashford and Foden in the starting XI. Pathetic, picked on reputation rather than form," said @1wozza.

• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Rashford last featured for England as a late substitute against Brazil in March 2024, having been left out of Gareth Southgate's squad for the European Championship that summer. The winger endured a miserable spell at United but has been revitalised by the move to Villa Park, registering four assists in nine games.

• Getty Images Sport
  

  WHAT NEXT FOR RASHFORD?

  Rashford will be aiming to impress Tuchel in his first England appearance in a year as the Three Lions look to get their World Cup qualifying campaign off to a good start.

Tags: Futebol
Category: News