Martial's Attitude Has Impressed Mourinho

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho admits he has been impressed with Anthony Martial’s attitude so far this season, and feels it has been the catalyst for the Frenchman’s fine form on the field.

The no.11 put in a dazzling performance on Wednesday night as the Reds beat Burton Albion 4-1 to advance into the fourth round of the Carabao Cup, providing the assist for Jesse Lingard’s deflected goal, before scoring United’s final strike himself with a composed finish to finish as the Man of the Match.

Those key contributions took Martial's personal tally for this term to four goals and two assists in seven league and cup games, suggesting he's firmly on track to top the eights he registered in both columns across the whole of the 2016/17 campaign.

However, Mourinho was keen not to be drawn into comparing statistics, and instead he praised the France international's positive attitude ahead of Saturday's match at Southampton.

"I see a great improvement in the person," said the Reds boss, at Friday's pre-match press conference. "In his mood, in his face, in his body language. If you want one word: happiness. I am very pleased with his attitude overall, which means it’s easier [for him] to play well."

Only two of Martial's appearances have been made as a starter, but Mourinho is pleased with the forward for taking his chances as a substitute.

"He's a happy guy, he's working extremely well," the manager said. "If he starts matches, he tries to do well and if he goes on from the bench, even if it is for just 10 minutes, he tries to enjoy it and to give something extra in his time on the pitch."