Andy Cole says he has never seen Anthony Martial move so quickly

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Anthony Martial is back scoring goals again, thrilling fans with an impressive performance in the pre-season victory over Liverpool.

Martial scored United’s third goal, following strikes from Jadon Sancho and Fred, and played just the first 45 minutes before new boss Erik ten Hag made 10 changes.

The oft-derided forward pressured Liverpool into a defensive mistake before going through one v one, and chipping goalkeeper Alisson.

While just a pre-season game, this was exactly what Manchester United fans wanted to see out of Martial.

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‘Never seen Anthony Martial move so quickly’

Former Manchester United striker Andy Cole questioned Martial’s capability before the game, telling MUTV: “He’s 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.”

After watching Martial’s first 45 minutes of pre-season, Cole had positive remarks about the forward.

He said: “Thats the quickest I’ve seen him move. He’s closed down really well.

“Once he gets himself in the box he’s very composed. He’s got all the attributes, he’s got to marry everything together.

“He’s got belief in his own ability. Scoring like that in first game of pre-season is only going to give him more confidence.”

Doubting Martial is fair. He has not shown anything to get excited about during the past two seasons, and this could be his last chance.

As far as pre-season performances go, this could not have gone much better for Martial, and provides some hope he could play a valuable role this season.

Amid all the uncertainty over Cristiano Ronaldo, United need Martial to contribute. He appears to be up for the challenge.