Anthony Martial’s reputation continues to grow, as his strong form for Manchester United has carried over to the French national team.
After scoring three goals in his first four Premier League appearances, Martial was rewarded with a start for France in a friendly against Denmark.
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The 19-year-old striker had made three appearances for France earlier this year, but the match against Denmark was his first time in the starting XI. He played 87 minutes and assisted on Olivier Giroud’s early goal, which helped the French to a 2-1 win.
Anthony Martial is the youngest player to start for France since Karim Benzema in 2007. (TF1)
— Get French Football News (@GFFN) October 11, 2015
Martial was very impressive in his first start, using his pace and skill to continuously make attacking runs down the wings. He could have had another assist, but Giroud failed to finish off a good chance in front of goal.
Earlier this week, France manager Didier Deschamps spoke highly of the teenager, saying his strong start to the season showed he has “taken the bull by the horns.”
Martial backed up his manager by grabbing assists in both matches this week, wins over Armenia and Denmark.
Anthony Martial is the 1st player to notch up assists in two consecutive matches for France since Patrice Evra in June 2014. (Opta)
— Get French Football News (@GFFN) October 11, 2015
France automatically qualified for EURO 2016 as the host nation, and Martial has made a strong case to be included on Deschamps’ final roster. If he can stay healthy and keep up his good form, the young striker will likely find himself playing in front of a home crowd next June.
