Marcus Rashford feels his form is “up there with the best he’s ever produced” after another excellent display in Manchester United’s FA Cup win over Everton.
After scoring goals in his previous four games, Rashford seemed like a confident man as he managed Everton’s defense unevenly on Friday, playing a role in all three goals as they beat United Toffees 3-1.
He set up Antony for the opening in just four minutes and although Conor Coady leveled up for Everton, Rashford’s dazzling work on the left wing forced the Everton defender to return to his own net to give United a 2-1 lead in the second half.
Rashford limited his brilliant performance by posting a penalty late after Alejandro Garnacho was knocked down by Ben Godfrey, becoming the first United player to score in seven consecutive home games in all competitions since Wayne Rooney in 2012.
After leading United to the fourth round, Rashford believes he is nearing the pinnacle of his strength, telling ITV: “This is probably the best thing I’ve ever been to.
“I feel good on the pitch and I go into positions and zones to score. If they continue to create opportunities, I feel like I will continue to score at the moment.”
Manager Erik ten Hag is enjoying a strong start to his Old Trafford career and his team continues to fight on all four fronts as he plans to finish his first season with silver teams.
Rashford says United are focused on winning trophies, explaining: “That’s the goal. That’s why we do what we do and we work hard.
“We want to be in the finals and play the biggest games. Ultimately we want to win silverware and trophies, so hopefully we get the opportunity to do that this season.”
“It’s always nice to play in cup games and the FA Cup is definitely a special event to be played in.
“We’re happy to be able to move on to the next round and more importantly, we keep the momentum and continue to win games.”
In stark contrast to United’s pursuit of victory, Everton’s success could be to stay in the Premier League after a six-seven-seven streak in all competitions.
Manager Frank Lampard seemed to be looking down the barrel after his team was beaten 4-1 by Brighton and Hove Albion on Tuesday, but an improved performance against United despite the defeat has given the former Chelsea man hope he can turn things around.
Lampard cited Rashford as the key to the result, saying: “The players were very, very good. Our chances were higher.
“Marcus Rashford was probably the difference between the two teams because the best individual talent can do that to you.”
When asked if he expects to be in the bunker with Lampard, who has a major league fixture with Southampton next for Everton, he said: “This is out of my control. It’s not for me to focus on that.
“This league can change very quickly and when you have tough times, you have to work really hard to get out of it and the picture can change. My focus is this team and getting a result against Southampton.”