Erik ten Hag Admits Man United Are Stronger With Anthony Martial

Anthony Martial is set to make his first start for Manchester United since returning from injury. The Reds take on Brentford tonight in the Premier League.

Erik ten Hag has told reporters that Manchester United have a better chance of winning matches with Martial available again.

We think this is a hint that Martial will replace Wout Weghorst in the line-up to face the Bees at Old Trafford, as the Dutchman has managed just two goals in 19 starts.

Martial, 27, has not played enough football this season – 15 of United’s 47 matches so far this season — and he has been unable to complete 90 minutes in the league since January 2021.

This has been a frustrating spell not just for fans, but the team and manager too.

“First place, frustrated for himself,” Ten Hag said, as quoted by the Manchester Evening News. “He’s 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, first for our team, it’s frustration, and second for the manager as well because when your best players are available you have a better chance of winning games.

“I only have to refer to Liverpool home, Man City home when he was available and he makes a difference. But same for Casemiro and (Christian) Eriksen, they are very important players. But when they are not available, you still have to win.”

Martial fit… but for how long?

Although I am happy Martial is back in the team and likely to start against Brentford, I think it’s only fair to be cautiously optimistic about his return.

My worry is how long will it be before the Frenchman sustains another knock. We need the goals but patience is wearing thin when it comes to Martial’s availability.

Fingers crossed he can stay fit for the remainder of the season because that would be a big bonus for United.