Ten Hag gives Rashford Man Utd ultimatum after recalling him vs Liverpool

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has told Marcus Rashford he has to make a "big impact" against Liverpool on Sunday afternoon.

The Red Devils welcome Jurgen Klopp's side to Old Trafford looking to keep their faint hopes of Champions League qualification alive. The game could also blow the title race wide open, as if United do take points off of Liverpool, the result will be celebrated by local rivals Manchester City as well as Mikel Arteta's Arsenal, who are both gunning for the crown.

Rashford was dropped to the bench for United's last league outing, but has returned to the starting lineup and been told what he must do to justify that decision.

Ahead of kick-off, Ten Hag explained: "Today, Rashford has to show it, especially against Liverpool. That’s a game for him. He is one of our leaders and he should have a big impact today."

Rashford's place in the starting line-up may come as a surprise to some, given Antony has started to show signs of a turnaround in form. Ten Hag further justified his selection, adding: “Sure, but we need good pressing.

"That is the demand from the frontline, Antony went far in his physical outputs on Thursday and to do that repeatedly when you are not used to it, that is one reason.

"The other thing, it’s a big opportunity for Marcus. A big game, he should make the difference with his qualities. He has to be having a big impact on this game."

This is the second time United have met Liverpool at Old Trafford in under a month, after the 4-3 FA Cup quarter-final triumph over Klopp's side back in March.

However, this time the odds are stacked firmly in Liverpool's favour, especially as United have had to deal with a defensive injury crisis. Lisandro Martinez, Raphael Varane, Victor Lindelof and Jonny