Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has praised Manchester United duo Paul Pogba and Anthony Martial for the strides they’ve made since football’s return following the COVID-19 lockdown.
Injury issues meant that Pogba had made just eight appearances during 2019/20 before the Premier League resumed in June, but the World Cup winner has played a part in all 12 United matches since the restart – and Solskjaer is encouraged by the extra effort the midfielder is putting in.
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“I’ve answered numerous questions on Paul, and we’re delighted that he’s back playing. He’s fit, he’s enjoying his football,” said the boss. “Of course, he’s got to make up for lost time, and he’s trying to do that.
“He’s training extra, he’s always a great personality in and around the place, and hopefully we can see him lift this trophy [like] he’s done before. He’s professional, he’s a fantastic boy, and I’m delighted that we’ve got him in the team.”
Martial endured his own spell out with injury in the autumn, but has still managed to deliver his best United season yet.
His 23 goals in the campaign, thus far, makes him the club’s leading scorer and the manager is enthused that our no.9 is now adding more predatory, close-range finishes to his goalscoring arsenal.
“Anto has made huge strides this season in many aspects of his game,” began Ole. “Of course, I like him scoring between the posts, scoring simple goals, because we know he can score worldies.”
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Solskjaer also lauded Martial’s work away from the football field too, revealing that his improved physical conditioning has helped him adjust to the more taxing demands that come with playing exclusively as a central striker.
“He’s in the gym a lot and working on his fitness and strength – the coaches have done a fantastic job with him,” said the boss.
“He’s physically at his best in his career, [and we’re] looking forward to seeing him improving [with] more to come.”
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