Every word Ruben Amorim said after reinstating Marcus Rashford to Man Utd squad vs Newcastle

Ruben Amorim has reinstated Marcus Rashford to his Manchester United squad to face Newcastle United in the Premier League.

Marcus Rashford had been left out of the last four Manchester United squads, including for the dramatic Manchester Derby victory.

After that game, the 27-year-old conducted an interview where he admitted to being open to a ‘new challenge’ which set alight rumours about his Old Trafford future.

Amorim insists that his recent exclusions have been due to ‘selection’ although explained that he would have handled the situation differently when asked about the interview.

It seemed like the Academy graduate had played his final game for the club, with the January transfer window looming, but he has returned for a difficult Premier League clash against an in-form Newcastle side.

The forward has been included on the bench, while Joshua Zirkzee, Rasmus Højlund and Amad Diallo start in the front three.

Reports have suggested that the main reason for Rashford’s re-introduction to the squad is the injuries and suspensions for the game. Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte are both serving one-match bans.

Meanwhile, the likes of Luke Shaw, Mason Mount and Victor Lindelöf are unavailable due to recent injury setbacks.

What Amorim said about Rashford

Amorim has been asked about the situation regarding Rashford more times than you could remember over the last two weeks.

So it was no surprise to see the United boss quizzed on the 27-year-old ahead of a potential first game for the club since the 12 December and his answer wasn’t exactly convincing.

“Selection,” Amorim responded when asked why Rashford was back in the squad. “And we have a lot of players out.

“So he’s in. Like I say every week, I chose my players and he was there to be chosen and this time he is here.”

Kukonki in United squad again

While all of the attention is on Rashford, many would have noticed that 16-year-old defender Godwill Kukonki has returned to the squad and is on the bench.

The Academy starlet appeared on the bench for the away trip to Arsenal at the beginning of December after joining the squad, but not appearing on the bench, for a couple of games.

It is clear that Amorim rates the young defender, who can play at centre-back and left-back, and he has returned to the squad in hopes of making a first-team debut.

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