Ibra: Martial's Working Hard

Zlatan Ibrahimovic believes Anthony Martial’s hard work and professionalism paid off in his Man-of-the-Match display for Manchester United against Watford on Saturday.

Martial returned to the Reds’ starting line-up to score one goal and assist another for Juan Mata in the 2-0 Premier League win over the Hornets at Old Trafford.

United manager Jose Mourinho revealed after the game that the Frenchman had earned his recall to the starting XI through his determination in training and Ibra has seen the same quiet resolve from his team-mate.

"When he plays, he is playing well," the Swede told reporters. "He isn’t a guy that speaks a lot; he is quiet and very professional. He always tries to do his best, trains hard and that is paying off, just like in this match.

"I think it depends on every individual and what kind of person they are and their approach, how open he is. It is different for every person. He is not going around with his head down. He is training hard, he gives a lot of energy and he wants to play, which is normal.

"When we eat breakfast and he is beside me or if he passes me, we talk. I think everyone talks to everyone. It is not like you try to cheer him up; it is a good atmosphere and the guys are all good guys, very professional."

Of Martial’s display against Watford, Ibrahimovic added: "He was creating good chances. I felt he tired in the second half because he was running a lot and he hasn’t played every game, but he played well. He scored a nice goal and it’s good for him and his confidence and the team."