Anthony Martial’s current form deserves a second chance at Manchester United
Manchester United came back from a goal down to take the lead against Chelsea, only for the Blues to equalize through Ross Barkley in the dying minutes. The Red Devils endured a lacklustre first half but bounced back in the second with both teams playing out a well-contested 2-2 draw.
Frenchman Anthony Martial was once again in the thick of the action as he scored a brace to hand United the lead in the second half. The former Monaco winger has been linked with an exit in recent times, but in the last two league games, it’s Martial who has proven to be the driving force of this team.
The 22-year-old scored the equalising goal against Newcastle United when United were in desperate need of some goals. He was also a crucial factor in Juan Mata’s opening goal, winning the foul that ultimately resulted in the goal.
A number of teams have been tracking Martial, claims the Metro. The likes of Chelsea and Liverpool are also said to have made an inquiry for the player. But at this stage, it seems like the Frenchman definitely deserves a second chance in this squad.
Though he has often been a fringe player under Mourinho, Martial has always delivered when called upon. The 22-year-old announced himself as a Red Devil in stylish fashion by coming as a substitute to score against Liverpool 3 years ago.
Since then, his role in the squad has rapidly dropped. Although Martial did make a total 30 appearances in the Premier League last season, scoring 9 goals and 5 assists, most of those goals came from his 12 substitute appearances. (Stats courtesy – Premier League)
It’s clear that Martial is a determined forward who loves getting at defenders. The Red Devils have struggled to score goals on a regular basis this season and it’s Martial who seems to be the game-changer at the moment.
No United player has taken more shots on target than the Frenchman, over the last three weeks. The former Monaco winger is also getting into the right positions, winning fouls in dangerous areas. This certainly looks like the player United paid £36million for.
The likes of Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez have failed to hit their high standards this season and that has allowed Martial to emerge from the dark. Jose Mourinho must definitely give the French winger a second chance in this squad.
Martial has always proven to be a fast, agile and potent forward up front. Mourinho should now hand him some regular game time in order to maintain the form and momentum. The Red Devils have a tough run of fixtures coming up and the Frenchman could be pivotal to Man United this season.