Manchester United

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal shocked by Anthony Martial consistency

By Shane Callaghan, Reporter | 23 October 2015

Louis van Gaal admits that he did not expect young striker Anthony Martial to be this consistent so early in his Manchester United career.

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has admitted that even he is surprised by the speed with which Anthony Martial has adapted to life with the Red Devils.

The France striker, 19, has netted five times in all competitions for United since securing a £36m deadline-day move from AS Monaco.

Although the Dutch manager knew that success was on the cards, Van Gaal concedes that he did not expect the youngster to be so consistent this early in his spell with the club.

"I'm not surprised by him, no, because we have analysed him and bought him because of our analysis," Van Gaal is quoted as saying by The Mirror. "In the consistency, he has surprised me, but in terms of his ability, no. Because we have known already for a long time he can do it.

"He has to adapt to our philosophy. That is a big point. He is adapting quickly, but he has to adapt and develop himself more. He is going great though.

"Young players are not normally consistent - they're still looking for their identity in football. That's why I have asked for time for him. But I have said that Anthony is rather good and consistent, even though he is still looking for his own identity at this level of football."

Martial is expected to lead the line on Sunday when Van Gaal's men - who sit joint second in the table - welcome Premier League leaders Manchester City to Old Trafford.