Mourinho sees ‘great improvement’ in Martial

Ian Watson

Jose Mourinho says Anthony Martial is benefitting from a happier outlook as the Manchester United manager reflects on his forward’s positive start to the season.

Martial has started only once in the Premier League this season but the France star has featured in every game, scoring three goals off the bench as well as another during a man-of-the-match performance against Burton in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday.

Such consistency contrasts with Martial’s form last season, when he scored only four goals throughout the entire season, during which Mourinho publicly questioned the 20-year-old’s attitude.

But the manager is now delighted with Martial’s contribution.

“I see a great improvement in the person, in the mood, in the face, in the body language,” said Mourinho. “If you want just a word, in the happiness.

“He’s a happy guy, he’s working extremely well. He starts matches, he tries to do well.

“He goes from the bench, even it is for 10 minutes like in the last match at home, he tries to enjoy and try to give something in these extra minutes.

“I am very pleased with his attitude overall and then it’s easier to play well.”