Anthony Martial is on a mission to win over Erik ten Hag.
The French striker has scored two goals in as many pre-season games this summer and there is a feeling of optimistic surrounding the idea of giving him another chance to prove himself at Manchester United.
I’m not against the idea so long as Martial is in the right frame of mind because nobody can deny his abilities as a footballer.
Martial returned to United this summer with an uncertain future following a disappointing loan stint at Sevilla last season.
However, we’ve seen these situations change in football before, and Martial is showing the form that has proved so elusive since he joined the club as a youngster in 2015.
Ten Hag made it clear has been impressed by Martial on tour.
“I’m sure he can come back even better,” Ten Hag told reporters (via BBC Sport) in Melbourne after United’s 4-1 win over Melbourne Victory.
“I think when he has the right focus and the right motivation, and he works hard he will have production because he is a good player. It’s up to him.”
Erik ten Hag believes Anthony Martial can kick on for #MUFC if he stays focused & motivated pic.twitter.com/8KA0IPw3KD
— Simon Peach (@SimonPeach) July 15, 2022
Previous managers have struggled to get the best out of Martial, so it is interesting to hear Ten Hag say it’s up to him. Ten Hag obviously believes in the Frenchman, but he needs to see the work on the training ground – as well as providing an end product on the pitch.
Like I said above, nobody can dispute Martial’s talent. The question is whether he can reach his full potential at United? He took his goal against Melbourne Victory well.
Ten Hag’s comments would suggest that Martial won’t be leaving United any time soon.
