Amorim's hidden message as Rashford left out of Man Utd squad to face Spurs

Marcus Rashford has been omitted from Manchester United's squad for their Carabao Cup quarter-final clash against Tottenham Hotspur.

His absence comes amid increasing speculation about his future at the club.

Rashford has made headlines by suggesting he was ready for a "new challenge," hinting at a potential departure from Old Trafford.

His omission from the squad for the Manchester derby last weekend, alongside Alejandro Garnacho, raised eyebrows.

And now, while Garnacho has been included in the squad for the Tottenham match, Rashford appears to have been frozen out again.

The 27-year-old wasn't pictured as United's squad gathered at an airport car park and then travelled to Stockport train station on Wednesday afternoon.

United's manager, Ruben Amorim, has been taking a tough stance with his players, emphasizing the importance of discipline and hard work.

Rashford's recent behaviour, including a public display of frustration after being substituted in a recent match, may have contributed to his exclusion.

Amorim gave a press conference on Wednesday morning which included the perhaps telling message that he "expects the best of each player every day" and he was expecting a reaction.

"We have one more training, but it's the same situation as the other players," he said.

"If they train well, then I have to make a choice. We will see at the end of training. Of course [I expect a reaction]. I expect the best of each player every day so we will see after training."

The Portuguese manager has implemented a strict regime at Old Trafford, demanding high standards from his players both on and off the pitch.

It remains to be seen whether Rashford can adapt to Amorim's style of management and regain his place in the team.

As the January transfer window approaches, Rashford's future at United will continue to be a subject of intense speculation.

A move away from the club could be on the cards, especially if he continues to be marginalized by Amorim.

Rashford told Henry Winter this week: "For me, personally, I think I'm ready for a new challenge and the next steps.

"When I leave it's going to be 'no hard feelings'. You're not going to have any negative comments from me about Manchester United.

"That's me as a person. If I know that a situation is already bad I'm not going to make it worse.

"I've seen how other players have left in the past and I don't want to be that person. When I leave I'll make a statement and it will be from me."