‘I haven’t seen him sprint in five years’ – Andy Cole tears into Manchester United ‘enigma’ Anthony Martial

Anthony Martial has returned to Manchester United. (Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)

Manchester United legend Andy Cole says Anthony Martial has ‘all the talent in the world’ but has criticised the Frenchman, claiming he ‘hasn’t seen him sprint in five years’.

The striker has returned to Old Trafford this summer following a disappointing loan spell with Sevilla.

Martial had hoped to kickstart his career after losing his spot under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer last term but he scored just twice in Spain, with the La Liga giants opting not to sign him on a permanent basis.

Martial may be given another chance this season following Cristiano Ronaldo’s declaration that he wants to leave but Cole says he wants to see more from the Frenchman, particularly in his attitude.

Cole was critical of Martial (Photo by JACK TAYLOR/AFP via Getty Images)

‘It’s a fresh start,’ Cole told MUTV.

‘I think for me personally with Antony he’s got to make his mind up what he wants

‘He’s got all the talent in the world but we’re yet to see it. I’m yet to see him sprint full out in five years hopefully the manager can get something out of him.

‘We know it’s in him but we’re yet to see it.’

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Martial starts up front for United in their first pre-season friendly today, with the Red Devils taking on rivals Liverpool in Bangkok.

Ten Hag has selected his strongest XI for his first game in charge, with Martial flanked by Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho, with Bruno Fernandes, Scott McTominay and Fred in midfield.

In defence, Diogo Dalot starts at right-back ahead of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, with Raphael Varane, Victor Lindelof and Luke Shaw making up the back four. David De Gea starts in goal.

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