Euro 2016: England legend Sir Geoff Hurst insists Man United ace Marcus Rashford isn’t in the squad to make up the numbers
World Cup-winning striker says the forward deserves a chance after his 'remarkable' rise to prominence since Christmas
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SIR GEOFF HURST insists Marcus Rashford is not in England's squad for the 2016 European Championships in France just to make up the numbers.
The World Cup winning legend, 74, claims the Manchester United youngster deserves to play a role for Roy Hodgson's Three Lions thanks to his 'remarkable' rise to prominence.
Hurst - who bagged a hat-trick the last time England won a major tournament at the 1966 World Cup - reckons Rashford could make a good impact off the bench for Roy's boys.
He said: “[Rashford] certainly won’t start, but the great thing about these tournaments is, anything can happen.
“I think he will get some time on the pitch, certainly, and depending on injuries, suspensions and so on… These factors will show how much he gets to play.
“What is clear is that he is not here to make up the numbers.
“He’s there as a credible member of the squad and quite deservedly so for the remarkable rise he’s enjoyed this year.”
Hurst went on to say that England's young squad is hugely exciting, but it's not about the future, it's about the here and now, claiming the Three Lions could do well in France.
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“I’m always very hopeful going into a major tournament – I’m a very positive person.
“I think England can be very successful. They’ve got a very good bunch of players in the squad.
“It’s the youngest squad since 1966 and we’ve got a very good attacking line-up.
“No one can accuse Roy of being negative, particularly with the inclusion of Marcus Rashford.
“It’s nice to have a young squad, but I’m not thinking long-term and just giving them experience for the next few years.
“It’s about doing it now. The players in the squad have to do it now in this tournament.
“But it is very encouraging and I think these young players are fearless. They’re not aware of the pressure, the past, the expectations…
“That’s definitely encouraging and very healthy.”
England kick off their Euro 2016 campaign against Russia on Saturday night.
Sir Geoff Hurst was speaking at the Goldsworth Park Football Festival, one of hundreds of McDonald's Community Football Days taking place across the UK this summer giving thousands of children access to free fun football. To find your nearest event visit