Anthony Martial key to Manchester United’s top four hopes, says Erik ten Hag
- Manchester United boss happy to have injury-prone striker fit and firing again ahead of Premier League trip to Fulham
- ‘He is an important part of the squad,’ Ten Hag says after Martial makes scoring return in the League Cup
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag said Anthony Martial is the best finisher in the team and was delighted to have the France forward fit again, adding that he will be vital to their hopes of securing a top-four finish in the Premier League.
Three separate injuries this season have meant that Martial has been restricted to six appearances in all competitions, but he has still netted four goals with two assists so far.
Martial, 26, made a scoring return to the starting line-up in United’s 4-2 League Cup win over Aston Villa on Thursday and was withdrawn just after the hour mark as a precaution.
“Definitely. I like a player like Anthony,” Ten Hag told reporters on Friday when asked if keeping Martial fit was key. “He can hold the ball, he is a target, he can run behind, he can finish and he is a good presser.
“He plays very well in a lot of aspects of football and I am happy with that. I’m happy with everything except his availability.”
United, fifth in league with 23 points, have managed only 18 goals in 13 games with limited options up front.
