Erik ten Hag has spoken out on Anthony Martial’s ongoing fitness issues this season.
The Frenchman’s future at Manchester United looks uncertain, as his availability throughout the 2022/2023 campaign so far has been atrocious. Consequently, Ten Hag acquired Wout Weghorst on loan from Burnley in the winter transfer window and the Dutchman has started every match since his arrival.
So far, Martial has missed 26 games through separate injuries and his last league start for the club came in January.
It’s a shame as when the forward has played, he’s looked impressive and has registered six goals and two assists in all competitions despite his short cameos.
Ten Hag will be left with a huge decision to make at the end of the season regarding Martial’s stay at Old Trafford. A new striker is top of his wishlist this summer and the 27-year-old may not want to settle for being a backup No.9.
Ten Hag on Martial
Ten Hag was quizzed on Martial’s availability in this week’s pre-match press conference that was broadcast via MUTV.
“Anthony Martial is one of the best finishers at the club, you’ve not been able to pick him for most of the season. How frustrating is that for you as a manager, that you haven’t been able to rely on him?”
“[In the] first place, it’s frustrating for himself. He is the player who is most in the gym, he doesn’t want to be there, he wants to be on the pitch. But of course, our team, in the first place, it’s frustrating, secondly, [it is] for the manager as well because when your best players are available, you have more chance of winning games.”
“And if he is fully fit, and in your team and firing on all cylinders, how much of an improvement do you think he would make to your team?”
“I only have to refer to Liverpool [at] home, Man City [at] home when he was available. He makes a difference, but we spoke before, that’s the same for Casemiro, for Eriksen, who are very important players. But, when they are not available, we still have to win.”
