Rashford breaks Rooney record at Euros

Marcus Rashford became England’s youngest player at a European Championship on Thursday when he broke Wayne Rooney’s record with his substitute appearance in the 2-1 win over Wales.

The teenage Manchester United striker Rashford replaced Adam Lallana on 73 minutes Group B clash to make his international debut at the age of 18 years and 228 days, four days younger than his club and international captain Rooney was when he registered his first competition outing at Euro 2004.

His appearance off the bench was another chapter in a remarkable first season for Rashford, who only made his first-team debut for Manchester United in February.

The striker scored twice against Danish side Midtjylland in a Europa League tie, and followed that up with another brace in the Premier League win over Arsenal three days later.

After also scoring the only goal in a derby victories over Manchester City and further strikes in wins against West Ham United, Aston Villa and Bournemouth, Rashford received a first call-up to the senior England squad.

After scoring the opener in a 2-1 friendly win over Australia, Rashford secured his place in the final 23-man squad for the Euros.

Speaking after the final whistle, Rooney spoke to the BBC about Rashford’s impressive cameo performance and his Old Trafford team-mate breaking his own long-standing international record.

“He will be delighted,” he said. “I haven’t actually seen the players yet because I have been drug tested, so I am not allowed in the dressing room, but I am sure he is delighted and I am really pleased for him. “I saw today that it was 112 days ago that he made his debut for Man United and he is now playing on the biggest stage for England. It is a great story and we are all pleased for him.”