Marcus Rashford has been backed by Theo Walcott as a “dead cert” starter for England at the World Cup after rediscovering form on loan at Barcelona.
The 28-year-old forward, left out of Euro 2024, has returned under Thomas Tuchel and impressed in England’s 1-0 win over New Zealand, creating five chances before being substituted. Walcott said: “The way he’s played, that freedom, that enjoyment. We want to see that smile.”
Barcelona have until 15 June to make his £26m move permanent, just before England face Croatia. Wayne Rooney called Rashford’s United exit “a shame” but admitted the change revived his career.
Rooney, Walcott and Jermain Defoe all believe Tuchel’s squad can end England’s 60-year wait, with Defoe stressing the value of players arriving fresh from club triumphs.
