Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has confirmed that Marcus Rashford's absence from the travelling squad to Moldova for Thursday's Europa League contest with Sheriff Tiraspol was due to an injury.

The England international was a notable absentee when the squad for the European affair was announced, and he had not been training with the Red Devils on Wednesday morning.

Ten Hag was asked about the club's academy product during his pre-match press conference and revealed that he was unavailable for selection due to "a muscle injury".

The 24-year-old has been in impressive form for Man United during the 2022-23 campaign, finding the back of the net on three occasions and registering two assists in six appearances.

Rashford's last appearance for Ten Hag's side saw him score twice and provide one assist in the 3-1 win over Arsenal on September 4, but he was withdrawn in the latter stages of the match.

The Englishman was then missing against Real Sociedad in the Europa League last week, and Ten Hag has revealed that he suffered a muscular injury during the success over the Gunners.

"He's not available. The consequence after Arsenal. He has a muscle injury. It's quite clear [can he make England squad], sure, yes. He's shown his great potential and quality [this season]," said the Dutchman.

"No, I don't think too long, but I cannot tell how long. It's not really bad and we expect him to be back quite soon."

Rashford is being tipped to earn a recall to the Three Lions squad for the national team's upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures with Italy and Germany due to his impressive form this term.

Cristiano Ronaldo started at centre-forward against Real Sociedad in Rashford's absence, and the Portugal international is seemingly in line to keep his spot in the XI for this match.

However, Ten Hag refused to confirm whether the 37-year-old would lead the line, insisting that the Moldovan fans would "have to wait until tomorrow".

"I'm sorry but the Moldovan fans will have to wait until tomorrow," the head coach added.

Man United saw their Premier League clash with Crystal Palace, scheduled for Sunday, postponed as a mark of respect following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Red Devils have also seen their league game with Leeds United, which was due to take place this Sunday, called off, so Ten Hag could select a stronger side than he originally planned, as Man United will not be back in Premier League action until October 2 against Manchester City.

Man United started their Europa League campaign with a 1-0 defeat to Real Sociedad, with the Spanish outfit's winning goal coming from a controversial Brais Mendez penalty. body check tags ::