Manchester United fought back against Bayern Munich and salvaged some pride with a 4-3 loss when many fans feared the worst at half-time.
At 2-0 down after 45 minutes, supporters feared a ruthless Bayern Munich side might embarrass Manchester United.
United did fight back in the second half and managed to score three goals. However, it wasn’t quite enough, losing 4-3.
One of the players involved in the late fightback was Anthony Martial, who has come in for heavy criticism in recent weeks.
READ: Five things we learned as Manchester United lost 4-3 to Bayern Munich
Anthony Martial praised
French forward Anthony Martial came on as an 81st minute substitute along with Alejandro Garnacho, with Facundo Pellistri and Rasmus Hojlund taken off.
While many would have thought Garnacho would be more likely to make an impact, Martial was surprisingly lively.
He was picked out for praise by Owen Hargreaves, who told TNT Sports he was impressed with his contribution.
Hargreaves said: “It’s been a brilliant little cameo from Martial. He looks sharp.”
Martial was credited with the assist for Casemiro’s first goal, with the Brazilian scoring two on the night.
Martial has to settle into impact role
Anthony Martial is no longer first choice at Manchester United, with new signing Rasmus Hojlund picked to lead the line in recent games.
Martial started twice while Hojlund wasn’t fit and didn’t contribute much, however, if looking to defend him, you could argue he was just building up his fitness after missing pre-season.
He has to now settle into his role as back-up, and start building a case for a recall, and show his manager he can afford to rotate Hojlund occasionally.
This was just a brief cameo, but there were at least some signs of life from Martial. United do need him to contribute this season, and in the short-term he has to show he can be a game-changer from the bench.
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