Manchester United legend Gary Neville has not minced words regarding Anthony Martial’s tenure at Old Trafford, expressing a blunt assessment that echoes the sentiments of many fans.
Neville has openly criticized Martial’s impact, especially in light of the forward’s recent struggle with injuries and a less than stellar scoring record for the club.
Having netted 89 goals in 311 appearances since his arrival at Manchester United nine years ago, Martial’s output has failed to meet the expectations of a leading striker at such a club, according to Neville.
The football pundit expressed surprise and dismay at these figures, suggesting Martial should not be considered over burgeoning talents like Rasmus Hojlund for the starting lineup.
Neville, who is also host of one of the best football podcasts out there, The Gary Neville podcast, said on Sky Sports ahead of the match against Newcastle: “When you hear the stats there and think he is a goalscorer that cost £50-60million and has scored 89 goals in nine years and we still can’t get him out of the club.
“I don’t think we are being hard enough. The failing of the football and recruitment department is absolutely incredible.
“The reality is there is no way he should be leading the line in any competition.
“They have the young lad Hojlund who has real promise but they need experience up alongside him.
“If he came into United and his partner was Cole, Yorke or Cantona you would see a sensation as the pressure would be off him. I feel for him a bit.”
