Manchester United are enjoying a fine season with hopes of a cup treble still alive but it could have been even better had Anthony Martial remained fit throughout.
The Frenchman has been limited to just six Premier League starts this campaign due to injury problems while Thursday night’s Europa League quarter-final first leg draw against Sevilla was his first start in Europe this campaign.
United confirmed fans' fears on Wednesday by announcing that Marcus Rashford – who has netted 28 goals and counting this season – would be out 'for a few games' through injury, but his absence has coincided with Martial’s return.
Erik ten Hag made it crystal clear ahead of Thursday’s match of the importance of the returning Martial. "With Rashford injured, it's logical to play him," Ten Hag explained ahead of the game.
"Is it a risk? Have you seen the last five seasons [with injuries]? I just hope for him, he stays fit and that he plays some games in a row because he needs that for his confidence."
Ten Hag then outlined three key ways in which Martial’s return would benefit his side: "When he's on the pitch he will score, he will link up, he will do a good job in the press, he is really important for us. When he's fit he is massive for us."
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The Frenchman found the net in a substitute appearance against Everton at the weekend but it was Thursday, when he was the focal point of the attack, where his importance became really clear. Martial dropped deep, linked play up and helped lead United’s attacking press.
The only other senior striker in Ten Hag’s squad is loanee Wout Weghorst, whose work rate and application is not in question but he is not the long-term solution in the position. Martial adds greater technique and a calmer head in front of goal.
Former United midfielder Owen Hargreaves explained on BT Sport at half time: “Anthony Martial was brilliant. I think his link-up play in the whole game was fabulous, he’s been able to get the ball down and drive forwards. Martial looks fit, he looks sharp, he has so much talent, Anthony, it’s almost unbelievable. It’s great to see him.”
Martial played a part in both of Marcel Sabitzer’s goals; firstly providing a clever flick on for Bruno Fernandes who then fed in Sabitzer, before Martial played a perfectly-timed through ball for the second ten minutes later.
The Frenchman was sharp and lively throughout the game, allowing for a fluid United attack that looked cohesive without Rashford. It was unsurprising that he was substituted off just after the hour mark to preserve his steady return to full fitness.
On a night where Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane went off injured, the presence of Martial was a welcome one for United and could be key for the remainder of the campaign.
