Marcus Rashford is reportedly set to face a significant setback, with indications that he will not be included in England's starting lineup for their World Cup opener. The Manchester United forward is part of the Three Lions squad for the tournament hosted across North America. England have settled into their base in Kansas City following a two-week training camp in Miami.
Thomas Tuchel's side are scheduled to face Croatia in their Group L opener on Wednesday night in Dallas, and it appears Rashford may be overlooked for a starting berth.
Rashford's Loan Spell at Barcelona
Rashford spent last season on loan at Barcelona from United, scoring 14 goals and providing 14 assists across all competitions. That impressive form earned the 28-year-old a place on the plane to North America.
According to the Daily Mail, Tuchel is expected to hand new Barcelona signing Anthony Gordon the nod on the left wing for England's clash against Croatia.
Whether Rashford will be given a role in an alternative position remains to be seen, but given that both the United forward and Gordon favour the left side of the attack, it appears increasingly likely he will have to settle for a place on the bench.
Other Selection Decisions
Should Rashford find himself among the substitutes for the Croatia fixture, he will nonetheless be eager to make a telling contribution if called upon later in the match.
The report also claims that Bukayo Saka is a doubt to start for England as he continues to recover from injuries sustained in the final weeks of the Premier League season with Arsenal.
Ezri Konsa and John Stones are reportedly likely to start at centre-back for the Three Lions, while there are suggestions that Noni Madueke and Jude Bellingham could also be included in the starting lineup chosen by Tuchel.
Pre-World Cup Friendlies
Rashford appeared in both of England's pre-World Cup friendlies against New Zealand and Costa Rica, though he was named on the bench for the second fixture, where Gordon was preferred.
Rashford's future at United has been in doubt ever since Barcelona opted to bring in Gordon from Newcastle in a transaction valued at £69 million. Consequently, speculation has emerged suggesting the Spanish club will no longer activate the £26 million clause to secure Rashford on a permanent basis from United.
Reports surfaced on Sunday claiming Rashford has already considered the prospect of rejoining United's first-team squad next season, and is believed to have maintained regular dialogue with manager Michael Carrick.
Following their match with Croatia on Wednesday, England will also face Ghana and Panama in their remaining World Cup group stage fixtures, where Rashford will be hoping to make a significant contribution for his nation.
