Erik ten Hag speaks out on Marcus Rashford performance in Community Shield defeat vs Man City

Erik ten Hag has backed Marcus Rashford to shine for Manchester United this season despite his missed opportunities in the Community Shield defeat to Manchester City.

Alejandro Garnacho gave United a late lead at Wembley on Saturday before Bernardo Silva sent the contest to a penalty shoot-out with a 89th minute equaliser.

Jonny Evans and Jadon Sancho missed from 12 yards as City secured the first piece of silverware of the season.

The result could have been different had Rashford taken two golden opportunities earlier in the contest.

A superb flowing move in the first half saw Rashford picked out in the box but he could not curl his effort inside the far post. The England international was denied by the post in the second-half after being picked out by Garnacho.

With Rasmus Hojlund ruled out until September, Rashford will be tasked with stepping up and improving on his meek return of seven Premier League goals from last season.

Despite again looking unconvincing in front of goal, ten Hag has backed his player to come good this season.

‘I think he was several times in very good positions,’ Ten Hag said.

‘I’m very pleased he is getting in those positions. Keep going, keep making those movements and the team will make those movements, he will score goals.

‘He’s experienced enough to deal with this and once he scores one, then the goals will come.’

United hope to wrap up deals for Noussair Mazraoui and Matthijs de Ligt in the coming hours with Aaron Wan-Bissaka meanwhile close to completing his move to West Ham United.

‘When we have some news, we will announce it,’ ten Hag said.

‘Until that point, we will work with the squad that is available. It’s clear we have problems and we have to work.

‘The players have to work to be available and the staff have to work, together it should be a good collaboration with the players who are available.’