Roy Hodgson has admitted Marcus Rashford's "special qualities" meant the young striker had to be included in his England squad for Euro 2016.
Hodgson confirmed his final 23-man squad for this summer's European Championships in France on Tuesday as Danny Drinkwater, Andros Townsend and Fabian Delph were omitted from the team while Rashford - who only made his debut for the Three Lions last week - made the cut.
Rashford's inclusion caps off a remarkable second half to the season for the 18-year-old after he made his debut for Manchester United in February, cemented his spot in the Red Devils team and, last week against Australia, became England's youngest-ever goalscorer when he netted in just the third minute at the Stadium of Light.
Hodgson admitted on Wednesday the youngster's rapid rise at Old Trafford, as well as his assured performance on his England debut, meant Rashford had to go to Euro 2016 although it came at Drinkwater and Townsend's expense.
"He’s had that fantastic end to the season. He has special qualities," Hodgson said.
"It was a very difficult choice. It was tough and in some ways I am satisfied I have the 23 I want to take."
Wayne Rooney added: "The way he [Rashford] has performed has been incredible, really.
"He showed what he can do on his first game for England."
