"I chose my players" - Manchester United coach Ruben Amorim explains decision to recall Marcus Rashford for Newcastle United clash

Boss Ruben Amorim has explained that his decision to pick Marcus Rashford in the Manchester United squad on Monday (December 30) was due to players missing out for the Newcastle United Premier League clash.

Amorim said that Rashford was back in the squad because he decided to pick him and not necessarily because of the Englishman's training:

"Selection. And we have a lot of players out. So he's in. Like I say every week, I chose my players, and he was there to be chosen, and, this time, he is here."

The manager added:

"We just have to do the maximum to win the game. Marcus could be important today."

Manchester United fell 2-0 down to Newcastle United in the first half at Old Trafford. The Red Devils are 14th in the league table and are just seven points above the relegation zone.

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Ruben Amorim sent a strong message to Manchester United star Marcus Rashford last week

Ruben Amorim dropped Marcus Rashford from his Manchester United squad for the derby against Manchester City. The Englishman has been out for the last few games. The manager sent a strong message last week:

"Some guys have a big responsibility here because they are here for a long time. This is maybe one of the lowest moments in our club. We have to face it and be strong in this moment.

"That's what I want for every player. Be the best that they can be. If you have big talent (produce a) big performance, take a big responsibility, have big engagement, push forward everybody in this moment."

When quizzed if he was in regular contact with the forward, Amorim added:

"I don't think so. Not for me, not for the other ­players because everybody is there every day during training, (and) they understand. That is the key point.

"The media and other people, I cannot control that. I speak with him every day, not about the interview but about the performance. I spoke with a lot of players indivi­dually during training, so I'm trying to do things my way. It's the only way I know. If I don't, I will lose myself."

Marcus Rashford has been linked with a move away from Manchester United in the January transfer window.