Mourinho rips into Marcus Rashford after Brighton defeat – will he ever play again?

Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho did not spare his players after the Friday night defeat to Brighton in the Premier League.

Pascal Gross headed in the only goal of the game in the 57th minute, condemning Mourinho to yet another defeat to a team he could have easily dispatched.

After the match, ‘The Special One’ was not happy and he let it rip on some of his players’ performances.

The main culprit was Marcus Rashford, who squandered a clear chance – failing to square an easy ball to an open Martial inside the penalty area.

Mourinho’s frustration was evident on the touchline after the incident and during his post-match press conference, he justified his reasons as to why he leaves some players on the bench more than others.

“Not good enough, because the players that replaced others didn’t perform at a good level and when individuals don’t perform at a good level, it’s difficult for the team to perform at a good level. Maybe now you understand why some players play more than others and you don’t ask why A, B or C don’t play more,” said Mourinho.

He then recognized that Brighton were stronger than his side, applauding their attitude and desire. “Overall, and especially during the first half, they were obviously stronger than us, with more appetite. They felt the game with different emotions,” added Mourinho.

In his furious rant about squandered chances, Mourinho indirectly explained to the media why he always starts Lukaku ahead of Martial and Rashford. “For many months you're asking me why this player doesn't play, why always Lukaku? I know my players better than you. I thought for some of them that the possibility to start a game would be good. You now have the answer why always Lukaku. Probably we aren't as good individually as people think we are,” he explained.

Alexis Sanchez and Romelu Lukaku were both missing from the matchday squad, meaning it was a chance for Rashford and Martial to prove themselves, but failed.

Man United still sit second on the log with 77 points after 36 matches.