A Conservative MP has attacked Marcus Rashford for “playing politics” when he should have played football after his missed penalty at Euro 2020.
The England footballer has received praise at all levels for his campaigns to ensure free school meals to poor children and has now started a book club to encourage them to read more.
But, after England’s loss to Italy, Natalie Elfike said: “They lost. Would it be unfair to suggest that Rashford should have spent more time improving his game and less time in politics? “
It is understood the Dover MP was criticized by another Tory MP after he posted the message on a Tory WhatsApp group.
Ms Elfike has now apologized, saying the post “shared the disappointment and sadness of millions of other English fans”.
“I regret sending a personal reckless response to Marcus Rashford’s missed penalty and apologize for any suggestion that he is not fully focused on his football,” he said. declared.
“For the World Cup and I look forward to the contribution of Marcus Rashford at that time. “
The Food Foundation, which advocates affordable and healthy food for all, has praised the Manchester United star for his more than a year working together.
“He has attracted more attention to the problem than we thought. No matter what, he is a hero on and off the pitch. Thank you Marcus,” the organization tweeted.
Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka also missed the game in the shootout, as Italy won 3-2 on penalties at Wembley after a 1-1 draw in 120 minutes.
Labor Party deputy leader Angela Rainer accused Ms Elfike of “making fun of the motivational players” who rallied to feed hungry children when she voted to leave them without food.
“Whether it is their inability to support the weak or instigating our boys after making our entire country proud, the evil party is back,” she said.
“Boris Johnson must publicly condemn these shameful messages, following his failure to support our players in their stance against racism. Which side is he on, the lion heart on the pitch or the Conservative MPs attacking him? “
Last year Mr Rashford forced the government to take a face-to-face action over his intention not to fund free meals, which would otherwise be given to students during the holidays.
He has now stepped up that campaign, calling on the prime minister to urgently review government policy on school meals in England.
The footballer has teamed up with TV majors Jamie Oliver, Tom Kerridge, Hugh Fernley-Whittingstall and actress Dame Emma Thompson.
During this time, he partnered with the publisher Macmillan Children’s to donate 50,000 books to over 850 primary schools in England and Scotland.
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