By Daily Sports Nigeria on December 1, 2022

Marcus Rashford has revealed the emotional reason behind his celebration after his first goal in England’s 3-0 victory over Wales, when he dropped to his knees and pointed to the sky. 

It was a memorable night for the Manchester United forward who scored twice, ensuring England took top spot in Group B and advanced to the last-16.

After scoring his first goal, Rashford fell to his knees and looked upwards in a tribute to the man-of-the-match’s late friend Garfield Hayward, who died two days before the game after a long battle with cancer. 

During his post-match interview, he said: ‘Unfortunately I lost one of my friends a couple of days ago.

‘He’s had quite a long battle with cancer, so I’m pleased I managed to score for him.

‘He’s always been a big supporter of mine. He was just a great person and I’m pleased he came into my life, really.’

Rashford was brought into the starting 11 for the first time in Qatar and has given Gareth Southgate a selection headache going into their last-16 clash with Senegal on Sunday.

‘It’s been a challenge for him,’ said the England manager, who was unaware that Rashford’s friend had died in the build-up to the game.

‘I went and saw him in the summer, had a long chat with him and he had some clear ideas on things that he felt he needed to think about and to do.

‘He could have had a hat-trick, really, with the chance in the first half and then the one at the near post towards the end.

‘But great for him and because it’s great for him it’s great for us.’

After a quiet opening half, England stepped up a gear in the second with Rashford scoring a stunning free-kick to give the Three Lions the lead.

Man City star Phil Foden doubled the lead before Rashford added a third for the Three Lions – having also scored as a substitute in the 6-2 victory over Iran. 

Rashford took to Twitter after the game to post his second goal celebration, as he jumped for joy, surrounded by his England teammates, alongside the captain: ‘Last 16 here we come.’

Source Sporting Sun

Posted December 1, 2022

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