England boss Roy Hodgson has suggested that Manchester United ace Marcus Rashford could make a late push to make his squad for Euro 2016.
The 18-year-old has made a stunning impact in recent weeks, scoring twice against Midtjylland in the Europa League before scoring another double against Arsenal in the Premier League just days later.
With injuries taking their toll at Old Trafford, Louis van Gaal has handed the youngster an opportunity to impress, and he hasn’t disappointed thus far.
In turn, it appears as though his good form and early promise could see Hodgson take him to France for the European Championship this summer.
“I would neither rule him in or rule him out, I just hope he can do well,” Hodgson said, as reported by ESPN FC. “I have been watching Rashford for two years, so I have known about him for a long time. He is in our system.
“He plays for the [England] under-18 team, so we are delighted that a player playing for our under-18s, players who we believe in and who we think have got a bright future, are getting chances in the first team. That is wonderful and long may it continue. I hope he has a good end to the season. Most of all, I hope he is allowed to develop as an 18-year-old should and people don’t try to put him under enormous pressure.
“Scoring four goals in three games is a great achievement and if he can keep that up, it is great for Manchester United and England.
“Last time I was with the national coaches we were talking about the players, in particular the under-19 squad which is competing for another major tournament and they think the under-19 squad is a strong one and Rashford’s name was mentioned then.”
Hodgson went on to reiterate his desire to see the youngster allowed time and patience to develop without too much pressure on his shoulders, as he believes that he can improve into a great player in time.
The England coach has shown an openness to give youth a chance in previous tournaments and qualifying campaigns, and based on his suggestions this week, it appears he will continue to work with that philosophy moving forward.