Marcus Rashford’s 100th goal for Manchester United sealed a 1-0 win against West Ham as the England forward made his push for a World Cup place on Sunday.
Rashford has been one of United’s most improved players this season after several years in the doldrums.
But the 24-year-old is still not guaranteed a place on England’s flight to Qatar for the World Cup in November.
Rashford, who was left out of England’s most recent Nations League squad, took the chance to remind Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate of his qualities with a fine display capped by the first-half winner at Old Trafford.
With Southgate watching from the stands, Rashford’s seventh goal in all competitions this season was perfectly timed before the England manager names his World Cup squad.
After netting against Sheriff in the Europa League on Thursday, Rashford said Erik ten Hag was a “joy” to play for as he hailed the United manager’s role in his revival.
Thanks to Rashford, the 22nd player to score a century of goals for United, and a series of superb saves from David De Gea, Ten Hag’s side are up to fifth place in the Premier League.
Unbeaten in their last eight games in all competitions, United are one point behind fourth-placed Newcastle in the race to qualify for next season’s Champions League.
West Ham manager David Moyes has still to win away against United in the Premier League, losing 12 of his 16 visits to his former club.
United had to ride their luck at times, with their defence creaking as the much-maligned Harry Maguire made his first league start since August 13 in place of the injured Raphael Varane.
