Aston Villa drop Marcus Rashford transfer hint after Man Utd return plan discussed

boss has heaped praise on adaptability, suggesting it's key to the club's ambitions going forward. The loanee has been a revelation since his January switch, outshining and becoming a pivotal figure in Villa's attack.

Rashford found himself sidelined at after a prolonged dip in form but has since reignited his career at Villa Park, impressing with his versatility across the front line. His resurgence has relegated Watkins to the bench, a situation the latter admits is challenging. Emery has not shied away from acknowledging Rashford's impact in crucial fixtures, including high-stakes clashes against Paris Saint-Germain.

The manager values the ability to deploy players in multiple roles, stating that such forwards are "better" for the team's dynamic.

With Rashford excelling both as a central striker and on the wings, where his speed is a significant asset, Emery recognises that Villa are stronger with him in the squad.

As summer approaches, the future of Rashford and the relationship between the two clubs remains a hot topic.

In a nod to Rashford's importance, Emery remarked: "You always need two strikers and being versatile is better. Rashford is versatile.

"I want to have players like these two as we try to get to the level we want. I like to have players in the squad at the level those two have shown us.

"My job is to share the playing time between both, manage the person as well as the professional, as well as the tactical idea and my selection for each match.

"I want to have the same selection problems I have had in the last matches we have played.

"Some players will be on the bench, but they are very important and they have shown it this season by making an impact.

"That's what I want. I had more problems when I didn't have enough players to play at the level I wanted.

"Now I have enough to compete at this level, and we can see the difference between how we are now and how we were six months ago."

Villa can sign Rashford for £40million this summer, should he desire a permanent switch. The prospect of another season of Champions League football looms-an ambition both player and club share.

Ruben Amorim on Friday, confirming the 27-year-old will return to Carrington this summer before a transfer decision is made.

"All the players on loan will return, and then the club will decide what to do at the end of the season," Amorim explained.

"When you put a player on loan, the best thing is for them to perform. All these [loan] players have talent, and they have to put that on the team.

"The talent of Rashford, the talent of Antony, they all have talent. We are really happy because if you put players on loan, you want them to perform. That is good for us."