Ruben Amorim explains Alejandro Garnach’s surprise inclusion as Marcus Rashford pulls out of Man Utd’s FA Cup tie
Ruben Amorim has revealed that Alejandro Garnach’s surprise inclusion in Manchester United’s starting 11 for their FA Cup clash with Arsenal was a result of his impressive performances in training despite a string of attacks transfer speculation about the player.
Marcus Rashford, another United striker who has been at the epicenter of endless rumours, was not included in the squad.
Garnacho is out along with Rashford for last month’s Manchester derby. Unlike his teammate, the Argentinian striker persistently fought to get back into Amorim’s plans to be associated with a departure – admittedly, mostly as a substitute.
Amad Diallo was the first choice option United‘s front three over recent weeks, often partnering Bruno Fernandes behind one of Rasmus Hojlund or Joshua Zirkzee. However, the winger – fresh from signing a new long-term contract – was fit enough to be named on the bench ahead of United’s third-round tie with Arsenal. Garnacho got the nod, not Rashford.
“Amad [Diallo] he had a little problem during the week and I like how Garnacho is playing – he is playing well,” Amorim told BBC before the game. “The way he is training we thought it was a good opportunity to see Garnach start the game.”
Ahead of the weekend, Amorim confirmed that Rashford had returned to training and was available after coming through in last Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Liverpool. due to illness. However, the 27-year-old was again left out of the matchday squad.
It was telling that Amorim pointed to Garnach’s training performances and general attitude as an explanation for his inclusion. Rashford’s extended absence has reportedly been a consequence of his off-field activities and the irresistible exhibitions at Carrington.
Turning his attention from selection to the schedule, Amorim added: “We’re focused on being competitive in the little things and in the settings it’s hard to beat this team in that part.
“We have to show more aggression in the final third. We have a great history in this competition and we want to win.”
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