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Marcus Rashford has been impressive for Man United since the start of the new season

Last season was an underwhelming one for everyone involved with Manchester United, and Marcus Rashford endured one of his most challenging individual campaigns since becoming a first-team regular.

The 24-year-old made 32 appearances, registering just five goals and two assists. With United finishing sixth in the Premier League table, Rashford 1 and the majority of the first-team — came under criticism throughout the season and over the summer.

However, with Erik ten Hag taking charge of the club in the summer, it was a clean slate this season — for the England forward, and everyone else.

Rashford lost his place in the side under interim manager Ralf Rangnick last term, with Anthony Elanga being selected over the United No.10 on several occasions. This season, though, he started in all six of United’s opening matches, helping himself to three goals and two assists, though he was rested against Real Sociedad.

In the summer, Rashford explained that he was looking forward to a ‘fresh start’ at Old Trafford. He also suggested that team spirit was going to be crucial if the club were to enjoy a successful season.

Speaking to reporters in Melbourne during United’s pre-season tour, Rashford said: “For me it is a fresh start, something I am looking forward to.

“The first two and a half weeks of training has been good. We have improved a lot [and we’re] a lot fitter than last season.

We have a lot of room for improvement. I’m in a good place right now. I am looking forward to getting more games under my belt and getting ready for the season.

“It is a lot easier to make mistakes in a team that is winning. Individually it is the same thing. It is a lot easier to come back and improve when you make mistakes in a winning team. When you are losing it is difficult.”

Despite the rocky start to the season, which saw Ten Hag’s men lose their opening two games against Brighton and Brentford, the Reds have been in impressive form in recent weeks. One of the most important changes that the Dutchman has made since taking the reigns at the club is the improved team spirit, and the bond created between the players.

As Rashford said in pre-season, it is easier for players to make mistakes and try things when the team is winning. With Ten Hag’s side enjoying a purple patch of form, it’s clear that everyone is allowing themselves to be creative.