Erik ten Hag left impressed by certain aspects of Anthony Martial’s play

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Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been impressed by certain aspects of Anthony Martial’s play, according to the Telegraph.

The Frenchman has given his new manager a timely boost given Cristiano Ronaldo’s ongoing uncertainty at the club.

The former Monaco man has returned this summer with fire in his belly, a smile on his face and a man seemingly reborn under the former Ajax boss.

Three goals in four games and a blossoming deadly partnership alongside Bruno Fernandes, Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford has made the 26-year-old practically a nailed on starter for the first game of the season against Brighton & Hove Albion in 14 days time.

Martial’s performances will likely see him start against the Seagulls whether Ronaldo has re-entered the fray or not.

Erik ten Hag impressed by certain aspects of Anthony Martial’s play

Manchester United’s number nine only scored two goals last season, a measly tally he’s already surpassed during the club’s pre-season tour.

But the 30-time France international is showcasing the form that saw him score 17 Premier League goals during the 2019/20 season.

Following the campaign, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer signed Edinson Cavani and last season the Norwegian brought Ronaldo back to the club.

Martial hasn’t responded particularly well to legendary strikers arriving at the club.

When Zlatan Ibrahimovic arrived under Jose Mourinho, the Swedish icon took Martial’s number nine shirt and the Frenchman had to settle for number 11.

But with the likelihood of Martial being Ten Hag’s main man increasing next season, the mercurial Frenchman could take his game to a whole new level under the two-time Eredivisie winner.

Martial is buying into the Dutchman’s intense work ethic and Ten Hag has been impressed with certain specific aspects of his striker’s play.

A report from the Telegraph reads: “Ten Hag has been impressed by various aspects of Martial’s play, not least the intelligence with which he presses the opposition.

“Martial is adept at angling his runs to cut off passing lines into the midfield and, on this tour at least, has set the tone for the way United close down from the front.

“Martial’s link play has also drawn admiration from Ten Hag. Similarly, his hold up play.”

Martial is showcasing all the qualities to become a formidable number nine and working under such a hands on manager like Ten Hag will only bring further improvements and qualities to the Frenchman’s game.