Reporter explains why Anthony Martial misses pre-season friendly vs Leeds

Manchester United's French striker Anthony Martial reacts during the English Premier League football match between Manchester United and Chelsea at Old Trafford in Manchester, north west England, on May 25, 2023. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)

Arguably the biggest absentee from Manchester United’s travelling squad to Norway is Anthony Martial.

The French forward endured a difficult season last time around due to injuries and niggles. If Erik ten Hag wasn’t stuck for options up front, Martial is a player they would be trying to sell this summer.

But yet again, he’s not available.

Martial missed the FA Cup final with a hamstring injury but he returned Carrington for pre-season preparations last week.

BBC reporter Simon Stone also explained Van de Beek’s absence, when he tweeted: “Anthony Martial still not recovered from hamstring injury sustained against Fulham. Van de Beek on individual training plan.”

Dean Henderson was another noteworthy absentee. He has been ruled since January with a thigh injury but he was another player to return last week. A likely switch to Nottingham Forest may be the reason behind not bringing him to Oslo.

Patience wearing thin with Anthony Martial

I don’t think anyone gets surprised at news of Martial being ruled out of action anymore.

Last season was a good chance for Martial to impress under Erik ten Hag but it went wasted. That is why I would hate to see United rely on him again next term.

Ten Hag simply cannot trust Martial to stay fit.

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