Mourinho: Martial Still Adapting To My Style

Jose Mourinho believes Anthony Martial is still adjusting to his managerial style at Manchester United, as he responded to a suggestion the forward is suffering from ‘second-season syndrome’.

Martial enjoyed a superb maiden campaign for the Reds under Louis van Gaal in 2015/16, scoring on his debut against Liverpool in September and finishing with 17 goals in all competitions.

The 20-year-old Frenchman has made nine starts and four substitute appearances so far this term, netting twice, with Mourinho deploying him mainly in a wide left role.

Speaking at his press conference following United’s Europa League win over Feyenoord, in which Martial was not involved, Mourinho said: "First of all, the way the team played last season was very different – I’m not saying better or worse, just different.

"Probably Anthony was feeling more comfortable playing that way, at that intensity, at that rhythm of the ball – possession and ball circulation. So he probably needs some time." Mourinho also pointed out that there is plenty of competition for the attacking roles in his team, with several players hungry to impress.

"We have Mkhitaryan, Lingard, Depay, Mata, Rashford and Martial – these are the positions where we have more options," the boss said.

"You have one opportunity, maybe two or three. If you don’t bite, somebody comes and takes the meat."