Marcus Rashford Snubbed by England: Pearce Questions Tuchel’s World Cup Exclusion

**Marcus Rashford remains on the bench as England advance past Norway in the World Cup quarter-finals, despite Stuart Pearce’s criticism of Gareth Southgate’s failure to deploy the Manchester United forward in tight games.** The former England defender questioned why Rashford-who scored against Croatia and featured briefly against Ghana-hasn’t been used in England’s last two matches, where a counter-attacking spark was needed.

Pearce told talkSPORT that Rashford’s exclusion in both games was baffling. *“When you’re chasing a goal and need inspiration, there’s been no sign of him,”* Pearce said. *“You can change so many players in a game, but if you’re looking for a cutting edge, he’s not the one you go to.”* Rashford, 28, was an unused substitute in England’s 2-0 win over Mexico and the 1-0 victory over Norway, where Anthony Gordon-Barcelona’s new signing-started and provided two assists.

Manchester United, who loaned Rashford to Barcelona last season, are reportedly willing to sell. The Catalans triggered his €30 million release clause but instead signed Gordon from Newcastle. Rashford’s 14 goals and 14 assists in 49 games for Barcelona didn’t secure a permanent move, leaving United open to bids from Arsenal and Tottenham. A strong World Cup could have reignited interest, but his limited impact-seven minutes against Ghana, a 61st-minute substitution against Congo-has dampened expectations.

United legend Paul Scholes recently suggested Rashford is unlikely to stay beyond summer. With Rashford’s academy status and his age, a move could free up funds for United’s transfer window. Pearce’s comments add pressure: *“Perhaps it’s best he pursues his career elsewhere,”* he said. Rashford’s omission from England’s last two matches underscores the question: Can he regain his place in Southgate’s plans-or is his time at Old Trafford running out?

- **Croatia (4-2 win, 13 Jun):** Scored England’s fourth goal in a 72nd-minute cameo.

- **Ghana (0-0 draw, 18 Jun):** Played seven minutes in a deadlock.

- **Panama (2-0 win, 23 Jun):** Started but made little impact.

- **Congo (2-1 win, 29 Jun):** Substituted off at 61 minutes.

- **Mexico (2-0 win, 3 Jul):** Unused sub.

- **Norway (1-0 win, 7 Jul):** Unused sub.

Pearce’s criticism comes as Rashford’s future hangs in the balance-both at the World Cup and in his club career.