Manchester United might have secured a hard fought victory over Spurs (second behind league leaders Manchester City) on Saturday having been too predictable and less creative yet the fact remains that Anthony Martial reminded everyone watching of his clutch time abilities; grabbing the headlines despite again starting on the bench. While no one can question the Frenchman's talents he still remains a liability when United lose the ball as well as when defenders go hard on him coupled with his inability to track back and help the wing backs.
With Mourinho often opting for Marcus Rashford in his place, it is difficult to question his decision given the energy and vibrance of the Englishman Yes Martial has scored four goals in nine games (all goals from the bench), has a 100% shot accuracy as well as 84% pass accuracy yet it is also no denying the fact that when given less space the Frenchman is notified as well as becoming a passenger when defenders go hard on him due to his quiet nature and small body build whereas Rashford offers the opposite with more versatility which can stretch defenders with his direct runs making it easier for the other attackers to exploit and run into space.
With Romelu Lukaku as the no9, the use of the Englishman suits his game better due to his ability to run at defenders before lofting crosses or playing a through ball which is something unfamiliar with Martial as he prefers to cut inside often going for goal or drifting to the centre himself. In all these though he might not accept it in public , Anthony Martial knows that statistics have shown he is better when he comes from the bench to disrupt the plans of defenders who played direct with Rashford earlier in the game and have become stressed and unable to change game plan with his entry (Martial).
Rashford or Martial, Manchester United are winning despite not playing well and creating less chances with out of form Mkhitaryan and injured Pogba , which speaks volumes about their mentality this season.
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