Didier Deschamps says Anthony Martial ‘lacked in finishing’ for France in their win against Portugal but reiterated that the Manchester United forward was ‘very promising’.
Martial has had to fight his way back into the France squad after being overlooked for the World Cup back in 2018, which proved to be a successful campaign for Deschamps and his players.
France beat Portugal 1-0 in Saturday’s Nations League clash, thanks to a goal from N’Golo Kante. Manager Deschamps added that he initially thought Martial looked ‘clumsy’ after a number of missed opportunities, but later realised that they were down to small margins.
One chance came after a lovely pass from Paul Pogba, who we criticised on Sunday night over his persistent negative comments over United.
What Deschamps said about Martial’s performance and his overall development:
“He lacked in finishing — it seemed a little bit clumsy, but sincerely, having watched the moments again, it came down to small margins,” Deschamps told TF1, cited by Manchester Evening News.
“He is part of the group of players who have no been here for a long period of time, but he has changed during this period, on the pitch and off of it.
“With years, he has also gained maturity. He is much more determined — he is very promising.”
He is still waiting for his first goal for France since he returned to the squad in September.
Next up for the United forward is West Brom and we’ll be hoping he scores his first Premier League goal of the season.
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