Martial injury to be assessed
Although Sunday's away win over Everton was overwhelmingly positive for Manchester United, the delight was slightly dented by the sight of in-form striker Anthony Martial being substituted after just 29 minutes.
The Frenchman started at Goodison Park and was looking to score for the third game in a row, after his double against Manchester City and strike away to Omonia Nicosia, but an injury forced our no.9 off.
Martial was replaced by Cristiano Ronaldo, whose historic goal just before half-time – the 700th of his club career – proved to be the winner.
In his post-match press conference, Erik ten Hag was asked about Anthony’s condition, following his first-half withdrawal.
“I have to see,” said the United boss. “I cannot tell what it is or how serious it is.
“Let’s wait for the first 24 hours and see how serious it is, then I can give an answer.”
In an interview with BT Sport, the Dutchman indicated that the injury Martial suffered was not a recurrence of the problem which ruled him out for a number of weeks at the start of the season.
“No I don’t think so [it is a recurring issue],” he said. “It’s something different. He had a problem in his back.”
Despite playing just 29 minutes, the Frenchman played a key role in bringing the Reds level after Alex Iwobi’s opener, by laying the ball into the path of Antony in a devastating counter attack.
“He was important,” said Ten Hag of Martial’s contribution to the 2-1 win. “[He] assisted the goal with Antony, so [I’m] happy with that.”
With the Reds set to host Omonia Nicosia in the Europa League again on Thursday and then face Newcastle United in another home game just three days later, fans will hope the next update on Martial's fitness will be a positive one.