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Marcus Rashford must start for England against Senegal in the World Cup last 16 after his performance against Wales, says Gary Neville.
The Manchester United forward bagged a double on his first start of the tournament to steer the Three Lions to a 3-0 victory over their neighbours in their final Group B match.
Drafted in by Gareth Southgate alongside Phil Foden to replace Bukayo Saka and Raheem Sterling up top, Rashford’s superb showing has provided further selection headaches for his boss.
But Neville believes there should be no question about his place, tipping him to be among the first names on the teamsheet.
“He’s been like that for a good six months at Manchester United now,” he told Sky Sports. “He’s back on it.
“He’s a massive talent, he can improve, and he will continue to improve. It’s great to see him in an England shirt.
“I think he’s actually pushed himself into a position whereby he’s the one I think will start on Sunday. He’s the one guaranteed to start in that wide position with [Harry] Kane in the middle.”
Neville also had high praise for Foden, who netted the other goal against Wales on his first start at Qatar 2022, but also noted he was unsure whether he would get the nod.
“I thought he did really well because there was pressure on him,” he added. “There was massive focus from everyone on him.
“I would keep those two in, but I love Sterling, I love Saka as well, so I couldn’t really complain if any of them were in.
“Sterling has been a brilliant performer for Gareth, so it’s really difficult to see. I thought Rashford and Foden were the two outstanding players [against Wales] that looked most dangerous.”
