Ex-defender sends blunt Man United warning to Anthony Martial
The Manchester United legend wants to see Anthony Martial seize the initiative after a difficult second season at Old Trafford
Gary Pallister has warned Anthony Martial that the 2017-18 season is make or break for the Manchester United star.
The France international struggled to impress under new manager Jose Mourinho last season following the Portuguese coach’s appointment as Louis van Gaal’s replacement.
Mourinho used Martial sparingly throughout the 2016-17 campaign after the 21-year-old scored four goals and made six assists in 25 appearances in the Premier League.
Martial was a sensation in his first season at Old Trafford after Van Gaal made the France forward the most-expensive teenager in world football following a £36m deal.
The former AS Monaco striker has been linked with a potential switch to Ligue 1 side Paris Saint-Germain and Serie A giants AS Roma over the past couple of weeks.
However, Martial was Manchester United’s standout player in a penalty shootout victory over Real Madrid in the International Champions Cup in Santa Clara at the weekend.
The Manchester United No11 produced a brilliant run before teeing up Jesse Lingard to break the deadlock in the first half at Levi’s Stadium in California.
Club legend Pallister has warned Martial that he is entering a crucial time in his stalling Old Trafford career.
“It was a tough year for Martial. He had problems off the pitch and at times he looked disenchanted,” said Pallister, speaking to 888sport.
“Jose questioned his attitude a few times last season and what he was doing on the pitch but he’s had some good moments in the pre-season games and hopefully he learns from last year.
“Old Trafford is a goldfish bowl and he will be under pressure but there is no doubting the talent that he has. He has pace and power but last year I don’t think his head was in the right place.
“It is make or break time in a way and he has to ensure he starts the season well.”
Read the full 888sport interview with Gary Pallister, including his thoughts on which club made the best signing of the transfer window.
