Heading into the last international break United fans were praying for Anthony Martial’s return. This time we are all so thankful to have him back.
United look like such a better side with Martial in the starting line up it is unreal. The Frenchman is key to everything we do, even in games when he is not on the scoresheet.
Martial created four chances in the 3-1 win over Brighton, two of which became assists.
For a broad comparison, Romelu Lukaku averaged 0.7 chances created per game for United last season.
A bit of everything
Martial’s record this season is pretty astonishing. In 10 games he has scored five goals and provided three assists.
These figures are made even better by taking away his substitute appearances. That means he has contributed to eight goals in eight starts for United this season.
The team looks more balanced with Martial in it, with Marcus Rashford released on the left rather than trying to lead the line.
There is a burgeoning partnership forming between Martial and Rashford which is driving United forward. We saw on Thursday night how potent the attack can be when Mason Greenwood is added into the mix too.
Martial staying fit is crucial to United kicking on from here and starting to make a push towards the Champions League places.
More than a goalscorer
Martial has five goals already and at the rate he is going he will surpass the 10 goal mark by the end of December.
That will set the Frenchman up for a successful 2020 and he really has the chance to make his mark as the team’s top striker. He hopes to top his personal best in a season of 17 for the club.
It is so important though that his game is about more than scoring goals.
His two assists against Brighton demonstrated that he is on his way to becoming the complete striker. Some of his link up play is an absolute joy to watch.
The goal he scored against Partizan showed there is magic in his boots, he can use both feet and is an unpredictable player for teams to defend against.
The fact he was recently overlooked by France’s international squad should motivate him further to prove a point. Martial needs to wake the world up to his talent. After bouncing back well from injury, he’s on the way to doing so.
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