Martial lacking self-belief: Matic

NEMANJA MATIC believes Anthony Martial (below) still lacks self-belief despite winning his on-going battle to cement a place in Manchester United’s first team.

The French striker has been one of United’s few success stories this season, particularly in recent weeks in which he has scored four goals in his last three Premier League games for Jose Mourinho’s side.

The 22-year-old has certainly looked more like the player who started his Old Trafford career with four goals in as many games in the autumn of 2015.

But teammate Matic claims Martial still needs to believe in himself more to fulfil his true potential and become one of the Premier League’s major forces.

“Anthony is a great player and he needs to understand that,” said Matic. “He needs more confidence. “He is still young and I think if he continues to score in the next game he will get that. If he reaches his top level he can be one of the best players in the league for sure. “Sometimes I don’t think he understands how good he is. Sometimes he is quick, he is good with the ball, he can run. He has everything that a Manchester United football player needs. “Sometimes I don’t think he understands that. If I had his ability with the ball and I was as quick as him then I wouldn’t pass to anyone and I would score every game!” United’s 2-1 win over Everton featured a Martial goal and a penalty that was won by the youngster, a result that continued United’s recent improve-ments, in the league at least. – AFP