The Norwegian tactician has assured the fans that they will see a different Martial this season.
The former AS Monaco forward has scored only seven goals last season across all competitions. While pundits and fans have questioned his inconsistency and lack of desire to represent the Red Devils last season, Solskjaer feels that he has seen a change in the Frenchman’s attitude in the preseason.
When asked about the Frenchman, Solskjaer said,
“Last season was disappointing, we had injuries, he lost some form, the season before he was our top scorer.
“If Anthony is taking all the penalties, or Marcus Rashford last season would have taken all the penalties, that’s another 10-15 goals for a centre forward but we’ve got Bruno [Fernandes] who’s so confident on pens that you can’t take that away from him really.
“I’m very confident and I like what I see from Anthony when I see him in training now, and when I see him in the gym he has that little bit of grit between his teeth again.”
There were several speculations regarding Martial’s exit from Old Trafford this summer, but Solskjaer has denied all the claims. He also gave valid explanations as to why he believes that Martial will come good this season.
Portugal international Bruno Fernandes was mesmerising for the Red Devils last season as he finished as the top scorer with 28 goals across all tournaments. While it is great to see Fernandes stepping up with the goals from midfield, Solskjaer wants his forwards to increase their tally as well.
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Last season was really tough for the former AS Monaco man as he only managed to net four goals in the Premier League as United finished second in the standings. While he suffered a major knee injury and for that he missed the last 10 fixtures but still four goals is very less according to the Frenchman’s lofty standards.
In the 2019-20 season, Martial netted 23 goals as 17 of them came in the Premier League. Solskjaer feels that the 25-year-old will realise that potential this season with his positive attitude.
After last season’s performances, there were several rumours that Martial maybe on his way out of Old Trafford. But Solskjer has assured everyone that he has a very important spot at Manchester United. The Norwegian even claimed him to be an important member of his squad for this season.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if other teams targeted Anthony, he’s a very very good player.
He has come back strong, hungry and determined to prove his fitness and quality.
“Last season was a difficult one for him and you can see that little bit of grit through his teeth again. He’s up for the challenge, he’s a Man Utd player and we’re happy we have him. He’s proved doubters wrong so many times.”
Solskjaer said.
However, despite all the assurance from his manager, it will be rather tough for Martial as United have signed long-term target Jadon Sancho from Borussia Dortmund. The England international will pose more threat on attack, increasing the competition for the Frenchman.
Earlier, United have also signed former Real Madrid centre-back Raphael Varane. He will solidify the backline for Solskjaer, which has been the major problem for them in the last couple of seasons.
