Tony reveals hero Ronaldo inspired him to become a footballer

UNITED forward Anthony Martial has revealed watching Cristiano Ronaldo growing up had him dreaming about following in the Juventus star’s footsteps.

Ronaldo joined United in 2003 when Martial was seven, and left six years later having won the 2008 Ballon d’Or after inspiring the Reds to Champions League glory.

And United’s current No.11 has said he was inspired to become a professional after watching Ronaldo shine at Old Trafford.

“It was Cristiano Ronaldo,” Martial told manutd.com, when asked who his favourite United great is. “He was incredible. He is incredible.

“I only admired players who dribbled the ball and he did just that. He would put on a real show. To tell you the truth, he got me dreaming that one day it could be me.”

Martial also revealed he was inspired by Brazilian World Cup winners Ronaldinho and Ronaldo when he was growing up.

The Brazilian Ronaldo won the Ballon d’Or in 1997 and 2002, while Ronaldinho won it in 2005 and both are regarded to be among the best players of all time.

“My two big heroes were both Brazilian – Ronaldinho and Ronaldo, because they had magic in their feet,” the 22-year-old said.

“Just about every player from my age group back then would probably tell you the same thing.”

Martial also had some kind words for team-mate Juan Mata. “If I was a kid of 14 today, who would I admire? Current players today? For me, I think it would have to be Juan Mata,” he said. “He is class.”