Marcus Rashford in middle of Barcelona row after Lamine Yamal accusations fired

Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has rubbished rumours that Marcus Rashford was treated more harshly than Lamine Yamal over disciplinary issues. Reports from Spanish media suggested that the club's hierarchy had 'forced' Flick to pick Yamal for the Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain earlier this month, despite the young player arriving late for a team meeting.

Meanwhile, Rashford found himself on the bench for September's La Liga match against Getafe due to a similar breach of protocol. Accusations arose that the handling of Yamal's situation represented 'double standards'. However, Flick has categorically denied these allegations and insisted that he has full control over disciplinary matters. "I'd like to know where you're getting that rumour from," he retorted.

"It's b*******. It's not true. At this club, with Deco and the rest of the professionals, I have a real relationship. I believe in my work. I have their trust, and they wouldn't ask us for it. It's rubbish. Whoever said it lied."

Rashford has made a strong start at the Catalan giants following his season-long loan move from Manchester United. The 27-year-old England star has scored three goals and provided five assists in his first 10 appearances, while also regaining his place in the Three Lions squad.

Despite facing backlash from the Spanish press over his late arrival last month, Barcelona's sporting director Deco has confirmed that the club is pleased with his adaptation.

Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, the former Barcelona star said: "He's on a simple loan, there's no penalty, and if we want him, we have an option to buy,".

"It's too early to talk about decisions for next season, but what matters is that we're happy with him. What we thought he could bring to us, he's bringing.

"He's a very high-level player - who exploded very early - then he had great seasons at United, then he had years of more complicated management with changes of coaches, and perhaps he struggled too because they demanded a lot of things from him there. But we're happy with him, that's the most important thing.

"These aren't decisions for now. Now it's time to focus on the games to come. A decision will be made, but that's not being discussed right now. There's a contract between the clubs, but it [the future] has to be discussed."