Agence France-Presse
Sunderland, May 28: Marcus Rashford made a bold claim for a place at Euro 2016 as the Manchester United sensation took just 135 seconds to become the youngest player to score on his England debut in the 2-1 win against Australia. The Man U striker scored with a clinical volley to light up the Stadium of Lights here.
No player of such a tender age had ever found the net on his England bow and at the age of 18 years and 209 days, Rashford is behind only former Liverpool star Michael Owen (18 years and 164 days) and United captain Wayne Rooney (17 years 317 days) in the list of the youngest scorers in an England shirt. However, Owen and Rooney had not scored on their debuts.
Rooney came off the bench to score England’s second after the interval before Australia got one back through Eric Dier’s own goal.
“What a debut. You asked if he (Rashford) was capable of dealing with the situation and I think we got a resounding yes,” England manager Roy Hodgson said. “It’s fantastic. I’ve got until Tuesday to name my squad but he wouldn’t be out of place in anyone’s 23.”
Just 92 days ago, Rashford was an unknown yet to play a professional game as he strove to emerge from the youth ranks at Old Trafford. But he has seized his chance in remarkable fashion, scoring eight goals in 18 United appearances and helping the team win the FA Cup.
Receiving possession 25 yards from goal, Rashford moved the ball onto Raheem Sterling before advancing into the penalty area. When Sterling’s cross deflected off Bailey Wright and looped high into the air, Rashford adjusted his stride and hit a close-range volley that flashed under Australia goalkeeper Mathew Ryan.
