Anthony Martial ruled out of Manchester United’s trip to Chelsea due to injury
Anthony Martial’s season has been hampered by injury, with the attacker ruled out of Manchester United’s match against Chelsea on Saturday evening.
The 26-year-old has made only three Premier League appearances this season, with only one of them coming as a starter, as a series of minor ailments continue to plague him, the most recent being a back injury.
When he has played, the Frenchman has looked impressive, most notably when he came off the bench to score twice in a 6-3 loss to Manchester City.
However, he will not play against Chelsea on Saturday, with manager Erik ten Hag confirming that Martial will not be in the team.
This leaves Ten Hag with a few choices up attack, with Cristiano Ronaldo also missing out after refusing to come off the bench against Tottenham in midweek, then walking down the tunnel before the game finished.
Ten Hag acknowledged the incident during a press conference on Friday, claiming it was Ronaldo’s second indiscretion after leaving early during a summer friendly against Rayo Vallecano.
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‘As the manager, I am accountable for the culture here, and I must set norms and values while also controlling them.’ ‘We have ideals and standards in the squad, and I have to handle that,’ added the Dutchman.
‘After Vallecano, I warned him it was unacceptable, but not to everyone, because this is the second time there will be repercussions.’ Tomorrow, we’ll miss him. It’s a loss for the team, but it’s vital for the group’s attitude and mindset, and now we have to focus on Chelsea, which is crucial.’
Ten Hag used a front three of Marcus Rashford, Antony and Jadon Sancho against Tottenham on Wednesday night, and that is likely to continue when they go to London.
Casemiro and Fred began behind Bruno Fernandes in central midfield, with Christian Eriksen dropping to the bench. All are vying for a starting spot against Graham Potter’s team.
