Pitch invader tackled by security as Rashford collects award after UCL clash

Marcus Rashford was unaware of a pitch invader who ran onto the St James' Park pitch at full-time - only to get tackled by a security guard as his progress was halted

A fan invaded the pitch and attempted to get near Marcus Rashford as he was picking up his Player of the Match award after Barcelona's win at Newcastle. The individual was swiftly tackled by security, with the loan star seemingly unaware of the situation.

Rashford was heading down the tunnel before he was told he had to pose for photographs with his award in front of the advertising boards. An individual wearing a black top sprinted onto the pitch but was halted before he could get near the player.

The Barcelona loanee enjoyed a triumphant return to English soil, having left Manchester United in the summer. He scored both goals as the Spanish side landed a 2-1 win at St James' Park to begin their Champions League campaign in the best possible fashion.

His two strikes, the second a memorable long-range effort, were his first for his new team. Rashford's exploits came with England boss Thomas Tuchel in attendance, and the 27-year-old admits he's been refreshed by his new environment, having been frozen out in Manchester.

He told TNT Sports: "It’s going good. Obviously learning a lot, it’s a new way of football. I’m enjoying it all and I think it’s making me a better player. That’s what I’m here to do, help the team win but also try and improve and be the best I can.

"Honestly it’s an amazing experience, I’ve always been a huge admirer of Barcelona. Most people my age have watched them play from when we were younger, so it’s amazing football, amazing players and we just want to win as much as possible."

Some suggested that Rashford's minutes at Barcelona would be limited given they already had a stellar front three of Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. But Hansi Flick has continued to use the loan star and believes his brace will only aid him.

He said on his loanee: "In the offense we have a lot of good players and he's one. I'm happy to have him. He gives us more options to follow the match. It's great to have him.

"These two goals will help a lot to get Marcus to the next step. It's so important he has the confidence and feels OK. These goals are unbelievable for him for the next steps."