Martial Important For United's Top Four Hopes, Says Ten Hag

Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag believes Anthony Martial is the best finisher in the team, adding that he will be vital to their hopes of securing a top-four finish in the Premier League.

Three separate injuries this season have kept Martial restricted to just six appearances in all competitions, but he has still netted four goals with two assists so far.

The 26-year-old returned to the starting line-up in United's 4-2 League Cup win over Aston Villa on Thursday.

In a post-match press conference, Ten Hag said: "Definitely. I like a player like Anthony. He can hold the ball, he is a target, he can run behind, he can finish and he is a good presser. He plays very well in a lot of aspects of football and I am happy with that. I'm happy with everything except his availability."

United, fifth in league with 23 points, have managed only 18 goals in 13 games with limited options up front.

Antony has missed United's last four games with a muscular injury and was due to be assessed after their training session later on Friday, but Ten Hag said the Brazil winger will not miss the World Cup, which begins next week.