Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has challenged deadline day signing Anthony Martial to prove he is worthy of a regular spot in the starting XI.
The teenager, who joined the Red Devils from Ligue 1 giants AS Monaco earlier this month for an initial fee of £36million, announced himself to the Old Trafford faithful in spectacular fashion last weekend as he netted 20 minutes into his debut against Liverpool after coming on a second half substitute.
He was then rewarded with a first start for the club during the 2-1 defeat at the hands of PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League on Tuesday night as he was handed the centre-forward role in the absence of injured captain Wayne Rooney.
Upon Martial’s arrival at the club, van Gaal stressed the importance of patience given the player’s age, however, it appears the Dutchman has had a change of heart and is willing to give the youngster an extended run in the side if he can maintain his good form:
“When I said he is for the future I meant at 19, a player is not fully developed, but I didn’t say I won’t count on him,” he told the media ahead of United’s Premier League clash against Southampton at the weekend [via Mirror Sport].
“I have to judge him every week, whether I can use him.”
“My decision will be taken based on the training sessions,” van Gaal added.
SEE ALSO:
Manchester United boss reveals Luke Shaw is in high spirits despite sustaining season-threatening injury
Manchester United team news: Fit-again captain Wayne Rooney poised to return for clash against Southampton
Manchester United & Liverpool on ALERT to the availability of Dutch left-back