Erik ten Hag has told Marcus Rashford that he wants to build his team around the forward to make Manchester United the best in the world.
The 25-year-old forward has scored nine goals in as many games since returning from the World Cup, but there is uncertainty over his future at Old Trafford.
Rashford has entered the final 18 months of his £200,000-a-week contract after United triggered a one-year extension clause, and the club want to agree terms over a new deal amid strong interest from Paris Saint-Germain.
Marcus Rashford has been urged to stay at Manchester United despite interest across Europe
United boss Erik ten Hag told Rashford that he wants to build the Red Devils squad around him
Ten Hag has helped to revive Rashford’s career since taking over in the summer, and he reminded the homegrown player that the way United play has also brought the best out of him.
Asked about Rashford’s contract situation on Tuesday, Ten Hag said: ‘I think he understands Man United is his club, that’s first. But also, in this environment, in this team, I think he is playing his best football.
‘Then, I would say this is the best place to be because we want to construct the best team, first in England, then in Europe, then in the world.
‘He is improving and that is about him because he is giving 100 per cent energy. I think also in this team he can bring his qualities. This team is constructed so that his qualities come to the fore and I think he knows that. But definitely he is important for us and if we want to get the success we want, we need him.’
Ten Hag has helped Rashford return to form at United since arriving at the club last summer
PSG are one of the sides that are interested in signing Rashford, should he leave United
Rashford’s progress is in stark contrast to Anthony Martial, who has struggled with a succession of injuries under Ten Hag. The Frenchman has made only six Premier League starts this season, and has failed to complete 90 minutes in any competition.
Martial will miss Wednesday’s Carabao Cup semi-final first leg at Nottingham Forest due to a leg injury, and Ten Hag said: ‘I agree, he has to be more available. He is really important for us because we play our best football when he is available. He has to be aware of that.’
Ten Hag wants to take a step closer to winning a cup in his first season and end United’s six-year wait for a trophy, the club’s worst barren run in 40 years.
The England international has scored five goals in his last five matches for the Red Devils
‘It is too long that this club didn’t win a trophy,’ said the United boss. ‘We are aware of that fact and we have to do it again. It belongs to this club to win trophies so we have to get back on track.
‘Once you are winning trophies, that gives you confidence that you know how you do it.
‘Winning games is one thing, winning trophies is another. It’s a thin line. In these decisive moments, you know what to do.
