Ahead of Liverpool’s match against Aston Villa, Arne Slot shared what he has found most impressive about Marcus Rashford. The Reds manager also praised an underappreciated star he can always count on.
Following a six-month loan switch, Rashford departed for Aston Villa in the closing moments of the winter transfer window. Additionally, Villa included a £40 million option to purchase the Manchester United forward.
In the early going at Villa Park, Rashford has appeared rejuvenated, and on Wednesday night, the 27-year-old has an opportunity to hurt old rivals Liverpool’s title hopes.
Originally slated for mid-March, the match between Villa and Liverpool has been moved up in place of Liverpool making it to the Carabao Cup final. With a victory, Liverpool can move ten points ahead of Arsenal. On the other hand, a loss would give the Gunners fresh hope as they continue to win league games in spite of a debilitating injury crisis in their forward line. Rashford, who will face Trent Alexander-Arnold if chosen on the left side, was evaluated by Reds manager Arne Slot prior to the match.
“I follow the Premier League, so of course I know Marcus Rashford,” Slot started. However, the [pre-season] tour of the USA was the first time I actually faced him.”
He is quick, has a good height, and is at ease with the ball, and I was truly impressed.
“I believe he is an excellent player, and I hope he will demonstrate that at Villa. Naturally, I’m hoping that tomorrow he won’t do this!
“However, he is a very good player in my opinion, so I would be shocked if he did not demonstrate this in the coming months.”
During the second half of Liverpool’s narrow 2-1 victory over Wolves on Sunday, nerves seemed to be getting the better of both the team and the Anfield crowd.
Slot used his ace card from the bench far earlier than usual, and the Reds occasionally appeared unable to string three passes together.
The Dutch coach has favored more technically minded midfield players over outright destroyers like Wataru Endo, which has hurt Endo’s reputation since Slot took over.
The resilient veteran still has a part to play, though, as Endo is frequently asked to help Liverpool win a match in the closing seconds.
With Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch noticeably tiring against Wolves, Endo was introduced to the action earlier than usual in the 71st minute. Even though things weren’t exactly going well, Liverpool managed to win the game and earn all three points.
Slot continued, “Wata has been really helpful to us this season.” You can be significant for two minutes and less significant for ninety minutes; it’s not always about how many minutes you play.
The resilient veteran still has a part to play, though, as Endo is frequently asked to help Liverpool win a match in the closing seconds.
With Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch noticeably tiring against Wolves, Endo was introduced to the action earlier than usual in the 71st minute. Even though things weren’t exactly going well, Liverpool managed to win the game and earn all three points.
Slot continued, “Wata has been really helpful to us this season.” You can be significant for two minutes and less significant for ninety minutes; it’s not always about how many minutes you play.
Wata is exceptional because he always shows up when we need him. It’s challenging to give your best performance when you haven’t had a lot of playing time and you have the mental toughness to do so.
The only problem is that defense is always simpler than creation. Playing a player who must create after a short period of time is more challenging.