Anthony Martial started Manchester United’s first pre-season game of the season and grabbed his chance.
Benefitting from Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence from the tour, Martial led the line supported by Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford.
In Erik ten Hag’s first ever match as manager, Martial played a key role in a superb opening 45 minutes for manchester United.
Jadon Sancho gave United the lead from a well-composed finish from inside the box, before midfielder Fred chipped Alisson from the edge of the box.
With Liverpool rocking after going two down, Anthony Martial added a third. After going one on one with Alisson after a defensive error, the Frenchman kept his head and followed Fred’s lead by chipping the onrushing goalkeeper.
This was a confidence boosting half for United, and for Martial in particular, who scored just two goals for United and Sevilla all of last season.
Former United striker Andy Cole told MUTV before the game: “Hes got to make his mind up what he really wants. I’m yet to see him sprint full out in five years. Hopefully the manager can get something out of him.”
The early signs are positive, with Anthony Martial showing strong movement and excellent finishing. It’s just pre-season, but this was what we wanted and needed to see from the striker.
Reaction to Anthony Martial’s pre-season performance v Liverpool
Here is a look at how Manchester United fans reacted to Martial’s goalscoring return…