Marcus Rashford scored in 49 seconds… the third fastest substitute goal in World Cup history

Marcus Rashford made an instant impact on his England return as he netted his side’s fifth goal against Iran just 49 seconds after coming onto the pitch.

The forward, who was appearing in an Three Lions shirt for the first time since missing a penalty in the Euro 2020 final shootout, was named as a substitute for England’s tournament opener against Iran and was introduced by Gareth Southgate after 71 minutes. 

Just 25 seconds after play resumed following the change, Rashford was played through by captain Harry Kane, cut inside his defender and slotted past goalkeeper Hossein Hosseini to mark his international return in style.

Marcus Rashford scored just 49 seconds after making his international return for England

The forward slotted home England’s fifth goal against Iran in their World Cup opener today

According to Opta, the goal, which saw Rashford take just three touches, was the third-fastest goal by a substitute in World Cup history.

England controlled the game throughout and were 4-1 up when manager Gareth Southgate brought Rashford on for two-goal man Bukayo Saka, as well as Phil Foden for Mason Mount, Jack Grealish for Raheem Sterling and Eric Dier for Harry Maguire.

Kane also impressed and dropped deep once again to log his second assist of the game after teeing up Sterling earlier in the game.

Rashford’s England team-mates grabbed him in celebration as the forward wheeled off

He was fed by Harry Kane (right), who impressed as he registered two assists on the night

He hadn’t featured for England since missing a penalty against Italy in the Euro 2020 final

Kane was then substituted too for the returning Callum Wilson as Southgate looked to rest key players with the game won.

Rashford has scored 13 goals in 47 appearances for England, but was left out of the squad back in March after a poor run of form for club side Manchester United.

He then missed the summer internationals too, and was absent from the latest international break after picking up an injury.

He was however recalled for the tournament after rediscovering his form under new Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag, and will now be planning on kicking on as England look to progress through the tournament.