Manchester United forward Anthony Martial led the line against former loan side Sevilla in the Europa League.
All eyes were on Anthony Martial as he made his first start for Manchester United since January.
With Marcus Rashford out with an injury, United needed Martial to step up. So how did he get on?
Martial played 62 minutes, with Erik ten Hag still playing it cautiously with his fitness.
Martial praised
Anthony Martial provided the assist for Marcel Sabitzer‘s second goal, with the Austrian bagging a brace.
This was his third assist of the season, added to his seven goals, despite his injuries.
His performance was praised by MUTV pundit Dion Dublin, who told the channel: “I thought Martial did very very well tonight.
“I’ve criticised him before. Really intelligent play. Good centre-forward, intelligent play, very unselfish.”
Martial’s display was also commended by Paul Scholes, speaking separately to BT Sport.
He said: “I think we saw Martial looking really sharp, Antony looking better each game he plays. I still expect more more from Sancho. But that front three have ability to score goals.”
Wout Weghorst came on and provided some fresh energy up front in attack in the second half, but there was something lacking in United’s play after Martial came off.
I don’t know if Martial will ever be a player United can rely on to play 90 minutes on a regular basis, but it would really help if he is.
Erik ten Hag’s caution is understandable, considering his injury history. He will be needed in the second leg, with an injuries and suspensions really hitting the team hard.
We noted earlier this week that Martial has a point to prove in Seville. Next week will be his chance to show it.
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