Expert issues Man United claim after ‘devastated’ Anthony Martial twist
Erik ten Hag will regret starting Anthony Martial for Man United in the derby last week after it caused the striker to spend more time on the sidelines.
That is the view of medical expert Ben Dinnery, who runs the Premier Injuries site and has a background in injury and data analysis, speaking exclusively to Football Insider.
Martial was named in the starting lineup for the Red Devils last week as they prepared to face bitter rivals Man City in the Premier League.
The Frenchman lasted just 45 minutes before being taken off and replaced by Antony.
Ten Hag revealed after the match that Martial “begged” to start in the derby, despite the decision resulting in the 27-year-old back on the sidelines injured.
Martial was then absent from Man United’s 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace on Wednesday evening after he struggled with his fitness.
Dinnery believes Ten Hag will appreciate Martial’s desire and attitude even if his gamble to start him didn’t pay off.
“There was always going to be a risk associated with starting Martial against Man City,” Dinnery told Football Insider.
“For the manager, it’s about taking information on board from the medical department, the player and then the strength and conditioning coaches.
“But a lot of decisions with regard to return to play are player-led, and Ten Hag spoke about how vocal Martial was about his desire to play and that’s precisely what he wants in his players.
“He wants Martial to be devastated when not playing and upset when he’s getting brought off the pitch.
“He took a big gamble and while they sometimes pay off, this one certainly didn’t.”
“Ten Hag will regret it in hindsight, but at least he came off without having suffered any major setbacks.”
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