Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has admitted Anthony Martial hasn’t been 100 per cent fit at any point throughout the season after the Frenchman suffered yet another injury set back prior to United’s 2-1 victory versus Crystal Palace on the weekend.
“He is not always available, but also I see the other side when he is available,” said ten Hag.
“He was never 100 per cent this season but he had a big impact every time he is available, even when he is at 80, 85, 90 per cent. So we do everything and Anthony Martial is doing everything.
“I think he is the player who has spent the most hours at Carrington this season, to return to recover, to get back. It is really a pity for him that he is disappointed.
“He is not always available and we want him to be always available because that will improve our game and because routines can’t become routines when you are not always available.”
United dipped into the loan market during the winter transfer window in order to boost their forward options.
Wout Weghorst joined the club on loan from Burnley with the 6 ft 6 in striker supplying a much needed focal point in attack, particularly with Martial’s injury record.
Martial has only started six league games this season and the need for a long-term striker replacement is apparent. Manchester United are reportedly eyeing Napoli’s Victor Osimhen as well as Tottenham Hotspur’s Harry Kane this summer.
Mark Marston | Get Football
