Manchester United attacker Marcus Rashford breaks silence after being omitted from England squad for Euro 2024

Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has wished England well after being left out of Gareth Southgate's squad for Euro 2024. The Red Devils attacker was somewhat of a surprising omission from the pre-tournament squad list named today (May 21).

Rashford posted on Instagram in response to Southgate's squad announcement:

"Wishing Gareth and the boys all the best for the up and coming tournament."

This will be the first major international tournament Rashford misses during Sotuhgate's entire reign. He has been an ever-present for the Three Lions since the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

However, Rashford, 26, has endured a disappointing season at Manchester United, suffering a major nosedive in form. He's managed eight goals and five assists in 42 games across competitions. This is a stark contrast to his career-best tally in the 2022-23 campaign where he put up 30 goals and 10 assists in 56 games across competitions.

The 60-cap England international had appeared in friendlies against Brazil (1-0 loss) and Belgium (2-2 draw) in March. He was also a regular during the Three Lions' Euro 2024 qualifying campaign, posting two goals and one assist in six games.

Southgate has instead opted for several Premier League forwards he feels have been outperforming the Red Devils star. This includes Eberechi Eze, Anthony Gordon, James Maddison, Cole Palmer, Ollie Watkins, and Ivan Toney.

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Gareth Southgate explained leaving Manchester United's Marcus Rashford out of England's Euro 2024 squad

Gareth Southgate has counted on Marcus Rashford throughout his reign.

Southgate admitted that certain attackers had enjoyed superior seasons to Marcus Rashford leading to his decision. The England boss said (via transfer expert Fabrizio Romano):

"I just feel other players in that area of the pitch have had better seasons. That’s it."

There have been several standout performers from the English top-flight who have been included. Chelsea's Palmer has shone while Arsenal's Bukayo Saka and Manchester City's Phil Foden were obvious call-ups.

Rashford would likely have been included if not for his problematic season both on and off the pitch. The Englishman seemed to lack confidence and dealt with personal issues such as calling in sick for training with Manchester United after a night out binge drinking.

However, the Red Devils star lit up the 2022 FIFA World Cup and was one of England's best performers. He posted three goals in five games and many expected him to kick on in a consistent front three with Saka and captain Harry Kane.