Aston Villa manager Unai Emery says discussions about making Marcus Rashford‘s loan move from Manchester United permanent can wait because the team are focused on competing for honours both domestically and in Europe. After Rashford netted his first goals for Villa in their triumphant 3-0 FA Cup quarter-final against Preston North End, which sets up a semi-final clash with Crystal Palace, Emery is also gearing up for a blockbuster Champions League quarter-final tie against Paris Saint-Germain next month.
The England forward has revived his career at Villa Park since his January switch, having lost favour at Manchester United under Ruben Amorim. Villa holds an option to secure Rashford’s permanent signature for £40million once the season concludes. When questioned if he’s decided Rashford’s future at the club, Emery said: “Not yet. The most important thing is the challenge now and this afternoon, recovering and then preparing for the match against Brighton tomorrow.”
“Still there are a lot of matches to play. If we are in the Champions League, if we are in the Europa League, if we are in the European Conference League or not in Europe or winning a trophy, it is completely different.
“A decision about each individual player… it is to get the best of them and the best of us. We don’t want to waste time thinking about it.”
Emery lauded Rashford’s dedication on the pitch in what was his 10th outing for Villa since his January move. “Firstly, his commitment to work and adapt quickly is very important. He is doing it,” he noted.
“To feel comfortable playing at his best level, there is still work to do. Weeks to get it. Today, he did one step forward, feeling comfortable, gaining confidence and scoring goals.
“There is still work to do and adaptation to get together, the team-mates and himself. Today, I think this was one step forward.
“He was coming here in the last two months not training consistently and not feeling very fit in the first matches with us. After playing more and with the national team, it has helped him to feel better. Today was confirmation of his progression with us.”
This story first appeared on the Mirror
Content Source: www.express.co.uk