Van Gaal Impressed By Martial's Progress

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has praised the recent performances of Anthony Martial, citing the Frenchman’s dedication to his own development as something all young players should strive for.

The club’s no.9, who won ManUtd.com's Player of the Month and Goal of the Month prizes for December, has scored seven times and notched two assists since his arrival from Monaco in September, but it is his overall displays that have particularly stood out, with Martial adding pace and power to the Reds attack. Still only 20 years old, the Frenchman’s form has belied his young years, something that has both surprised and impressed the manager.

“I am very pleased with how Anthony is developing himself which is why he always plays, more than I had imagined before,” the boss told journalists at his pre-match press conference. “I could not predict that he would play almost every match because when you are 19 years old [when he joined] the rhythm of the Premier League is exceptional, which is why I am very pleased with him.”

Another youngster that has previously impressed at Old Trafford is Adnan Januzaj, who returned to Manchester this week following a loan spell at Borussia Dortmund. Van Gaal stressed that his belief in the young Belgian remains resolute, but added that Januzaj must utilise all the help available to him from the coaching staff, whilst also pushing himself.

“In the same way as Anthony Martial, Adnan has to do it for himself,” the Reds boss insisted. “ However, I have talked with Adnan, saying that I believe in him and I want to help you, but you have to do it yourself.”

"It is the same thing with Martial as he has to do it constantly," he added. "Until now he shows it, but he has to do it more and this is what I say every match."