Amorim's 5 word reason why he didn't play Marcus Rashford against Newcastle

Ruben Amorim gave a five word reason why he left Marcus Rashford on the bench during Manchester United’s lackluster 2-0 defeat to Newcastle.

Despite being named in the squad for the first time since December 12—after missing four matches—Rashford remained an unused substitute. Amorim said afterwards the reason was because: "I think about the team".

United struggled to trouble Newcastle goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, failing to recover from early goals by Alexander Isak and Joelinton.

Rashford’s omission from the starting XI came after a prior incident on December 15 when Amorim dropped him for the derby victory over Manchester City, calling for more from the 27-year-old and hinting at issues with professionalism.

Since then, Rashford has stated in an interview that he is "ready for a new challenge" after nearly two decades at Old Trafford.

With key players Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte unavailable due to suspensions, Rashford’s return to the bench raised expectations.

However, he did not see any game time, even after Joshua Zirkzee—who occupied Rashford’s typical left-wing role—was substituted early, drawing ironic applause from the Old Trafford crowd.

When asked why he didn’t play Rashford, Amorim was firm in his response: “I think about the team. You think a lot about Marcus. I think about the team.

"When I’m there I’m not making a point. I just want to win the game.”

He added, “And you can feel it—I’m talking about the idea and the fight for relegation. Do I want to make a point during a game? No, I just want to win the game.”

Before the match, Amorim had explained to Sky Sports that Rashford’s inclusion in the squad was a straightforward decision. “We have lots of players outside, and so he’s in,” Amorim said.

“Like I said, every week I choose my players. He was there to be chosen, and this time he is here.”

The decision not to play Rashford has only added to the uncertainty surrounding his future at the club, as United continue to struggle for form under Amorim’s leadership.