Manchester United defender Chris Smalling has explained that Anthony Martial has caught his eye in training as far back as pre-season after his superb form at the start of this campaign.
The France international has scored five goals in his first eight games this season and looks to have become a more trusted member of Jose Mourinho’s squad after struggling for games last year.
Martial initially excelled as a striker under Louis van Gaal, but was slow to adapt after being moved out wide by Mourinho when he took over as manager in 2016/17.
However, he seems to be relishing the role this term and Smalling has admitted he’s stood out on the training ground since before the new season even began.
‘Right from pre-season, Anthony’s been leading the way in training,’ the England international told MUTV.
‘He’s terrifying one-v-one, as we’ve seen tonight, I’m glad he’s on my team.’
Martial was on target again for United as they strolled to a 4-1 away win against CSKA Moscow in last night’s Champions League clash.
The 21-year-old was arguably the side’s stand-out performer in the match as he scored and picked up two assists for the Red Devils in an impressive result.
Manchester United 2018/19 Fixtures
Fulham (A) - Feb 9
PSG (H) - Feb 12
Chelsea (A) - Feb 18
Liverpool (H) - Feb 24
Crystal Palace (A) - Feb 27
Southampton (H) - Mar 2
Smalling was certainly pleased with the display, adding that he felt it was one of United’s best performances this season.
‘I think that’s as dominant as we have been,’ he said. ‘Scoring those goals in the first half, it was probably the best first half we have played all season.
‘To come here with this atmosphere, in arguably one of our toughest games in the group, I think it is a true testament to our team.’
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