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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Samuel Luckhurst

Manchester United manager Ten Hag sends message to Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial

Erik ten Hag believes Manchester United duo Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial can become prolific goalscorers if they remain sharp when not involved in games.

Rashford has scored 12 goals for United this season and Martial is on five whereas last season the pair tallied only six United goals between them.

Martial has reestablished himself as United's first-choice striker while Rashford is in his best form for three years, having struggled throughout last term.

Read more: Ten Hag explains why United are signing Jack Butland

Rashford scored late on in the 3-0 win over Bournemouth on Tuesday night but Martial squandered a presentable headed chance before he was substituted in the second-half.

"First of all, keep the focus always and it doesn't matter if you are in the game or if you are not in the game, keep focusing on scoring the goal," Ten Hag said.

"I think a player like Marcus but others in our squad - Anthony Martial is the same - when they stay in the game, mentally, focused, 100% concentration, they always have the skills and only need one moment, one moment to change the game in a positive way.

"If he develops that skill he will score more goals and contribute to a successful season."

United start their FA Cup campaign at home to Everton on Friday night but have only won the competition once since 2004.

Should United fail to lift any silverware this season, they are certain to endure their longest trophy drought since the nine years between their maiden European Cup triumph in 1968 and the FA Cup triumph in 1977.

"For me, the cup is always special," Ten Hag added. "I know in England the FA Cup is even higher expectations, higher standards than in the Netherlands but I like the cup in the Netherlands as well.

"It's a different league. In not so many games you can achieve a lot and you have to come away a winner. This is possible if you draw a replay but then after two (rounds) it's a knockout and I like that."

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