Martial has always had his critics at Manchester United and since number one scapegoat Paul Pogba is out injured, many turn the blame of losses and poor performances to Martial.

Poor Form

United had 3 losses in the Premier League in January, as well as losing top scorer Marcus Rashford to a long term injury. It wasn’t a great month and lots of fans blamed Martial for not getting the goals.

Criticism especially came in the loss against Burnley where Martial missed a clear chance in the area and had a poor game overall.

Lack Of Support

Although Martial hadn’t been playing well, neither had the entire team. Against Liverpool, United created 2 big chances and both were created from Martial.

He was not getting runners beyond him unlike when Rashford plays and he didn’t have players in midfield to find him often enough. It was frustrating for the Frenchman.

With the absence of Pogba and Rashford, the two only real creative links for Martial it was always going to be a tough period for Martial.

Introducing Bruno Fernandes

The acquisition of Fernandes in January was vital for the team and Martial. With a goal or assist every 102 minutes in the Liga Nos, it was clear that he would positively impact United.

Martial has scored in 2 of the 3 games he has played alongside Bruno Fernandes, with Bruno setting up Martial initially before his superb goal against Chelsea.

The two clearly get on with Fernandes jokingly saying after the Watford game:

“I hope Anthony scores more goals when I pass the ball to him and not miss the goal and take the ball again. If he scores it’s two assists! Last week I say he never scores on my assists but I don’t think it’s my fault tonight”.

With more confidence in the midfield behind him Martial has regained form with 3 goals in his last 3 games. With the option for the Frenchman to play wide with the addition of Odion Ighalo as well.

A Strong Push For Champions League Places

With Fernandes, United are able to push and potentially regain a spot in the Champions League, which seemed very difficult before his arrival. If he and Martial can continue to link up, Martial will be looking at ending the season strong.

The Frenchman still has many critics, but if you look at the statistics, the striker has a healthy return this season with 20 goal contributions in the equivalent of 26 full games.

He will only get higher numbers with better reinforcements in the new season, and the critics should perhaps look at more important issues in the side before Martial.