What United Players Told Rio Ferdinand About Anthony Martial
Reuters / Matthew Childs
One player who has worked his way through Jose Mourinho’s plans this season at Old Trafford, is none other than young forward Anthony Martial. The former Monaco man’s attitude was questioned by the Portuguese last season, but this term, he has lived up to the billing so far.
Martial has been in the mix with Marcus Rashford, as the two have been replacing each other as substitutes on most occasions. Last weekend, they played together, and Jose believed it was the catalyst for a United victory despite them featuring together takes a lot away from the side.
As the Mancunian club geared up for their Gameweek 5 Group Stage encounter against FC Basel, former United legend and current football pundit Rio Ferdinand was glad to see the Frenchman starting the away fixture.
In a television show in BT Sports (via GiveMeSport), Ferdinand was in company with Gary Lineker, and he went on to reveal what the United players keep telling him about the France international.
Ferdinand revealed during the show that he often keeps visiting Carrington, where the Red Devils train, and he ended up hearing some promising words for Martial on one of his visits.
“I’ve been up there a few times, spoken to a few lads in the squad and every single one of them says the same thing: ‘He could be whatever he wants to be.’ In terms of talent, he can rival anyone on the planet,” said the former England defender.
Reuters / Jason Cairnduff
With Martial’s attitude already being questioned by Jose, Lineker then went on to ask about the player’s current mindset: “Attitude – what do they say about that?”
Ferdinand replied: “I think it’s about feeling the love. He needs an arm round him, he needs a real soft arm around his shoulder with a bit of cotton wool to make him feel like the man.”
Martial had a good show at Basel, and almost had United leading with his cross that was targeted at Marouane Fellaini, and then hit the post. He was eventually replaced by Rashford in the second half, but United went on to lose the match 1-0 when their opponents scored right at the death.
Written by Rajdeep Saha 
Sports journalist with stints across print, digital and television. Contribution to each medium has been thrilling. Experienced in writing for this passionate game called football. Journalist by choice and passion.