Gary Lineker has leapt to the defence of Marcus Rashford after the Manchester United forward came under fire for his recent form. The former England striker and BBC pundit hailed Rashford as a 'role model' both on and off the pitch.
Speaking on his podcast, Lineker said: 'Marcus has shown incredible character throughout his career. People forget how much he's done for vulnerable children through his campaigning. Footballers are human too – they go through rough patches.'
Rashford's Struggles This Season
The 26-year-old England international has faced criticism after scoring just one goal in his last 15 appearances for Manchester United. Some fans have questioned his commitment, but Lineker was quick to dismiss these claims.
'To suggest Marcus doesn't care is absurd,' Lineker stated. 'He's played through injuries before and always gives 100%. Every player goes through dips in form – even the greats.'
More Than Just a Footballer
Lineker particularly praised Rashford's charitable efforts during the pandemic, when he successfully campaigned for free school meals to be extended to disadvantaged children.
'What Marcus achieved during lockdown was remarkable,' Lineker continued. 'He used his platform to change government policy and feed hungry children. That's the mark of the man.'
The Match of the Day host concluded by urging critics to show more patience: 'We're quick to celebrate our stars when they're flying high but even quicker to knock them down. Marcus will come good again – he's too talented not to.'
