World Cup

William Gallas: 'Anthony Martial missed World Cup chance'

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 28 May 2018

Former France international William Gallas insists that Manchester United winger Anthony Martial only has his own form to blame for failing to make the World Cup squad.

Former France international defender William Gallas has claimed that Anthony Martial only has himself to blame for failing to earn a place in the squad for this summer's World Cup.

Martial struggled to hold down a regular starting role with Manchester United during the 2017-18 campaign, particularly following the arrival of Alexis Sanchez from Arsenal in January.

The 22-year-old was subsequently left out of Didier Deschamps's squad for this summer's tournament in Russia, but former Arsenal and Chelsea defender Gallas has urged the winger to learn from his omission.

"I don't feel sorry for him because he had the opportunity. He was in the squad many times before. I think he missed his chance go to the World Cup," he told Goal.com.

"He didn't perform at his best for the whole season. To go to the World Cup, you have to perform all season. You can't be up and down, that's what has made the difference. He is still young and maybe he will learn. He has great quality and it is a shame for him."

Martial started just 18 Premier League games for United in the season just finished, with a further 12 appearances coming off the bench.