TFF may be going against the general tide here when we state that, despite the painful 0-0 draw against Burnley on Saturday, Manchester United are finally starting to turn a corner.
Because, even though the opposition wasn’t great, we haven’t witnessed the sort of intensity that Manchester United showed in the second half against Sean Dyche’s men since Fergie abdicated this throne 40 months ago.
There were 37 shots from Manchester United (the most since Opta records began) and 20 corners were fired in as the Red Devils laid siege to the Burnley goal.
THE LATEST TFF PODCAST IS HOT OFF THE PRESS
But, Ander Herrera’s completely unjustified sending odd really symbolised where United are right now – they simply aren’t getting the rub of the green.
But they are also lacking a clinical finisher and that’s why Anthony Martial is desperately needed.
TFF has been concerned about his future ever since Jose came in. Because, for all his talents, he may not be so suited to a 4-2-3-1 where he has to track back all the time.
But his talent can not be ignored any longer. When he came on against Stoke he broke the deadlock within a minute with the sort of finish that the likes of Lingard can rarely muster.
With Martial on the left flank, it will also free up the other attackers. Because, with all due respect, the opponent would have to throw a lot more resource into stopping Martial than marshalling the willing but largely ineffective Lingard.
Adding Martial gives Manchester United another point of attack and TFF believes that his introduction will be the missing piece of the puzzle.
Niggling injuries have curtailed his season but Jose must now put his faith in the superb Frenchman – because he is quite clearly Manchester United’s version of Eden Hazard.