Man City must stop ‘dangerous’ Rashford in PL derby – Walker

Marcus Rashford remains a dangerous opponent despite the Manchester United striker’s disappointing form this season, Manchester City captain Kyle Walker has said ahead of Sunday’s Premier League derby.

Rashford has struggled in front of goal for United this season, having scored one goal in 12 appearances. But Walker said his 25-year-old England team-mate always poses a threat regardless of form.

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Rashford had an excellent 2022-23 campaign, scoring 30 goals in all competitions, and was subsequently named United’s Player of the Year.

“I think Marcus has shown over the years that he is the kind of player who can create problems for any team if they don’t suit him,” Walker told reporters ahead of their trip to Old Trafford.

“He has been important to both United and England since he was a teenager because of the threat he poses to any team he plays for.

“He has a lot of different qualities and we know he can be dangerous at the weekend.”

Reigning champions City are second in the table, six points ahead of eighth-placed neighbor United.

City crushed United 6-3 at the Etihad Stadium last season but lost the away game 2-1. They also beat Erik ten Hag’s side in the FA Cup final in June and then equaled United’s 1999 treble.

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But Walker now has a broader vision.

“Last season is over, we lost at Old Trafford and won the treble. At the end of the day, that’s what matters,” added the 33-year-old.

We want to win the game because of what it means and because ultimately it will help us try to win the Premier League again. We don’t need to think beyond that.

“We have had some very good games against them in recent years and our aim is to give the fans something to enjoy again on Sunday.”