Manchester United put in a very late show at Old Trafford to defeat West Ham United by a 1-0 scoreline. Marcus Rashford scored the winner in the 93rd minute.
But the most interesting point is about one player who has been having a roller coaster ride at the club in the past week. Anthony Martial has had a difficult season and due to injuries, he was left on the bench most of the time.
He expressed his desire to leave and his agent was constantly having talks with the club. But yesterday, unexpectedly, the French striker made an 82nd-minute appearance and he changed the course of the game within just 10 minutes.
With his quick runs and direct passes into the West Ham box, he showed great confidence. He completed every pass he attempted, and his last pass resulted in the game-winning goal.
Must Read: Anthony Martial hits back at Ralf Rangnicks recent allegations
In the 93rd minute, the Frenchman provided a crucial pass to Edinson Cavani while counter-attacking. The Uruguayan striker did the rest by staying onside and laying a simple pass to Rashford and he blasted the shot into the net.
Martial’s future has been a hot topic of conversation in recent weeks, and it was recently rumored that Juventus wanted a loan deal with an option to buy.
However, United was reluctant to let him leave on loan and if he leaves, the other club should cover his entire salary plus loan fees. Juventus were not ready to accept that and were claiming that this transfer could be a riskier one considering Martial’s poor run of form.
Rangnick kept Martial on the bench in most of the games, but he decided to start him against the Hammers as the Red Devils pressed for a win with a 4-2-4 formation.
Rangnick was very happy with his “crucial role” in the game, but he hinted that he might be heading for the exit. The interim boss is still not sure about his future at the club. However, he praised Martial for his super-sub influence.
As reported by the club’s official website, he said:
“Since we last spoke one-and-a-half weeks ago, I told him it’s about being professional until the very last day no matter how long he stays or when he leaves. It was good to have this conversation with him. In the last two games, he was part of the squad and today he played a vital role in the goal that we scored.”
“He’s a top player, one of the best strikers in the Premier League but we have other players in his position and it is his wish to leave but, as I said to him, it always takes different parts to find an agreement and the way he trained and played when he came on today showed his professionalism I expect from everybody.”
Rangnick’s words do direct us to the fact that Anthony Martial could be given more chances to play after this game. But if he desires to leave then the club will not stand in his way.
The French striker has already served the club for 7 years. Whatever decision he might make, he will always be respected for his contribution to the club.
