Carrick: "He’s our player" as Marcus Rashford returns ahead of Hull opener

Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick told ITV1 that Marcus Rashford is "our player" after the forward rejoined the squad in Dublin ahead of the friendly at Croke Park, with United preparing for their Premier League opener against Hull City on Saturday, August 22. Carrick said he is counting on Rashford for the new season.

Rashford had spent last summer on loan at Barcelona, where there was an option for a permanent transfer reportedly worth £26 million that the Spanish club did not take up; Barcelona instead signed Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United. Frequently linked with moves outside the Premier League, Rashford returned to Old Trafford with his teammates ahead of the new campaign and joined the side in Dublin for pre-season preparation. United played Leeds United at Croke Park on Wednesday evening, drawing 1-1 and winning on penalties.

Rashford was not named in the XI for the Croke Park match, with Carrick saying ahead of kick-off that he, Kobbie Mainoo, and Lisandro Martinez were "not quite ready yet". Carrick added that the trio were due to feature in the final practice game against AC Milan on Saturday.

United had been prepared to sell Rashford, but a lack of genuine suitors has made a transfer unlikely, and Carrick — who played alongside the forward for two years before retiring — now regards him as part of his plans. The manager confirmed the forward’s return to club duties after a brief training period back with the squad.

Speaking to ITV1, Carrick said: "He’s our player, you know, and he’s come back great. He’s just like any other player." He added: "I’ve known Marcus a long time and, you know, he gives us something a little bit different. And he’s been in great spirits since he’s been back." Carrick also said: "He’s been back two or three days training and it’s just pretty normal, to be honest. And we’re looking forward to the start of the season."

Carrick’s public backing leaves Rashford set to be involved in the squad for the final pre-season fixture against AC Milan on Saturday and available for Manchester United’s Premier League opener at Hull City on Saturday, August 22.