Ten Hag called on fans to back Rashford & push him back to his best level

Erik ten Hag has called on Manchester United's fans to back Marcus Rashford and help push him back to the level of last season.

Rashford took to social media in the early hours of Friday morning to call out what he feels has been months of 'abuse' aimed in his direction.

In response to a Man United fan account he posted: 'I appreciate your support! It is abuse and has been for months. Enough is enough.'

Asked about criticism being levelled at Rashford, who was jeered by United fans in Sunday's FA Cup semi-final win over Coventry City, wants a united front to help Rashford turn his dismal season around.

'I have a lot of sympathy for Rashy, of course,' Ten Hag said.

'Last year he had a brilliant season, the best season of his career scoring 30 goals so you see what he is capable of.

'This season he didn't give the performances and people are very critical. I think we have to back him.

'Everyone should back him and push him to get back to the levels he was last year.'

Rashford is not alone in being criticised for poor performances by supporters, with Antony booed on Wednesday night before he was an early withdrawal against Burnley.

But pressed on Rashford, who has just eight goals for United this season, Ten Hag is unwavering in support of his winger.

'I think he needs the support,' he continued.

'We all know what he's capable of, we all have to support and push him. He can do better than this year. We saw last year when he was really brilliant.'

He added: 'I think the fans are behind us always.'

Only Mason Mount is returning to Manchester United's squad for the weekend visit by Burnley, with Ten Hag optimistic that Luke Shaw, Lisandro Martinez and Anthony Martial could feature before the season ends.