Anthony Martial was left out of France’s squad (Picture: Getty)

France boss Didier Deschamps admits there’s been an improvement in Manchester United forward Anthony Martial this season but cited the example of Alexandre Lacazette to explain why he was snubbed.

Martial, 21, has five goals and four assists in just five starts for the Red Devils this season and was expected to be called up for France’s World Cup qualifiers next month.

Ousmane Dembele’s absence increased the likelyhood of Martial’s inclusion but the likes of Dmitri Payet and Florian Thauvin have been given the nod instead.

United fans hit out at Deschamps for overlooking Martial but the former Chelsea midfielder says

Lacazette has been called up (Picture: Getty)

‘He’s a player who’s probably better when he starts than when he comes on. A bit like Lacazette. All 24 players want to start,’ said Deschamps.

‘Anthony is much better, he’s decisive.

‘The last game highlights what he can do.

‘He’s getting back to a good level. He’s more used by Mourinho. He could have been in the squad. It’s a choice.

‘He was there during the Euro, he went through a tough time, which he got over. I can only tell him to continue to make me think about him.’

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