Paul Scholes praised Anthony Martial for his performance in Manchester United’s derby victory over Manchester City but still has doubt’s over the striker’s ruthless in front of goal.
Martial returned to lead the line in the absence of the injured Edinson Cavani and played a key role in United’s third consecutive victory at the Etihad.
United ended City’s 21-game winning streak under Pep Guardiola as they shocked the champions-elect with a display deserving of all three points.
Martial has been maligned by sections of the fanbase this season but set the tone for an improved showing by winning a penalty inside the first minute.
Bruno Fernandes stepped up to give United the perfect start and Luke Shaw scored a superb solo goal to ensure Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side returned to second in the Premier League table.
Martial was aggressive and direct in attack, providing the platform for United to cause real problems for a runaway City side who had previously looked irrepressible.
The only criticism of the Frenchman was his profligate finishing when one-on-one with City goalkeeper Ederson.
He was presented with a glorious opportunity to embarrass City by making it three for the Reds but wasn’t clinical.
United great Scholes lauded the overall efforts of Martial but still has concerns over whether he has the ruthless edge needed to score large numbers of goals for the Reds.
“Today against Manchester City I thought they were excellent on the counter-attack. I thought Martial was really good as he (Solskjaer) said in the interview,” Scholes told Premier League Productions, as quoted by the Metro.
“He’s not scored today, he’s had a great opportunity to score, but the other things he did meant he was a real threat. He was working hard.
“He has quality, I really like him. I think he’s suffered the last 10 or so games with confidence more than anything.
“The lad has got real ability, he probably should’ve scored today when he had a great chance and the keeper saved.
“When you go to Manchester City that might be the only chance you get. Someone like Michael (Owen) they take it, they know.
“They understand ‘I’ve got to be ready, if I get that chance I’ll put it away.
“I don’t think he’s got that streak in him but if he does get that streak in him he’s a lad who will get you 25 to 30 goals a season.”
READ MORE: Alan Shearer praises Manchester United star for key role in derby victory over Man City
