Manchester United ace Jesse Lingard backs Anthony Martial to impress this season: 'He's only going to get better'

Jesse Lingard believes the sky is the limit for Manchester United team-mate Anthony Martial following the Frenchman's fine display against Real Madrid. 

Martial showed a flash of why he was instantly adored by the Old Trafford faithful on Sunday when he claimed an assist in United's latest pre-season win.

The former Monaco forward picked the ball up on the left before beating three players and then squared the ball to Lingard, who tapped home from close range.

Jesse Lingard celebrates with Anthony Martial after the Frenchman's impressive assist

Jesse Lingard celebrates with Anthony Martial after the Frenchman's impressive assist

Martial is all smiles after his superb mazy run against Real Madrid at the Levi's Stadium

Martial is all smiles after his superb mazy run against Real Madrid at the Levi's Stadium

And Lingard has revealed his admiration for the 21-year-old who will will be hoping to cement a regular starting spot under Jose Mourinho. 


Lingard, speaking to Manchester United's official website, said: 'It was great. Anthony's got great feet when it comes to close control and he's got the confidence to do it in a game.

'It's a nightmare for defenders. Luckily I've got myself into space at the back post, got away from my man and then put it away.

'He's only going to get better. 'He's still young and if he carries on with that confidence [he showed for the goal] in the next few games and throughout the season, he'll help us a lot.'

Martial hit the ground running during his first season under Louis van Gaal by scoring 17 goals following an initial £36million move from France. 

However he struggled under Mourinho last season and was often deployed on the left wing after originally impressing as a No 9. 

Mourinho also lauded Martial for his display against Real Madrid but warned he must improve his consistency. 

The Portuguese tactician said: 'Obviously we want more consistency in his talent. I think today [Sunday] was positive for him, that is why I left him for 90 minutes on the pitch. 

'He was enjoying it, he was trying new things, and it is important in these friendly matches to try new things, which he did. That is important for his confidence. 

'Young players still need time to learn and time to improve. It is also his personality. I can say that he is training better than before, he is working harder than before, his ambition is to try to bring his talent in a consistent way.'

Jose Mourinho has called on Martial to improve his confidence ahead of the new season

Jose Mourinho has called on Martial to improve his confidence ahead of the new season