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Premier League legend Alan Shearer has delivered a stern warning to Marcus Rashford, cautioning the Manchester United loanee against unprofessional behaviour. Reports emerged over the weekend that Rashford found himself dropped to the Barcelona bench for being late to a team meeting.

The disciplinary action by Hansi Flick followed hot on the heels of Rashford's decisive two-goal performance against Newcastle in the Champions League. Those goals marked his first for the La Liga titans since his high-profile summer switch from United. Despite being benched for Getafe's visit, Rashford made an impact as a substitute, setting up Dani Olmo for a goal in their 3-0 triumph on Sunday.

After failing to secure a permanent move to Aston Villa, Rashford landed his switch to a Champions League side with Barcelona, where a similar clause could sever his ties with United, where he rose through the youth ranks.

Yet, Shearer has issued a clear warning that such lapses in professionalism won't be overlooked at an establishment of Barcelona's stature. Echoing Paul Scholes' earlier remarks this week, the ex-England forward spoke out on Rashford's conduct.

"Rashford can't be unprofessional, it's not right," Shearer said to Betfair. "We know that if Rashford is ready and if his attitude is right then there's a player in there."

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"He was sensational against Newcastle. The second finish in particular was amazing. But you can't be unprofessional.

"Why should everyone hang around just for you? Why should everyone else be on time but you be late? It's not right.

"I guess if he wants to stay there, particularly only being on loan, you can't do that when you're at a top club like Barcelona because there'll always be someone to take your place.

"It doesn't matter if you're two minutes late or 20 minutes late. You're late and your teammates have to wait for you. Why should they all be on time and you not?"

Rashford reportedly arrived two minutes behind schedule for the team briefing. However, Flick maintains a strict no-tolerance approach regarding punctuality, with fellow Barcelona stars including Raphinha and Jules Kounde also facing similar sanctions.

Rashford broke his silence on social media this Tuesday, marking his first public statement following the controversy. The 27-year-old declared he's returned to 'focus mode' as Barcelona prepare for their away fixture against Oviedo on Thursday evening.