Patrice Evra hailed the difference shown by Anthony Martial from his time at Manchester United.
The French striker has been in excellent shape since returning to the Premier League, and was the deck’s choice when he hit a hat-trick in United’s last game against Sheffield United.
Martial’s high notes ended a long wait for the club, with the 24-year-old becoming the first player to score a hat-trick since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013.
And Evra, speaking to Sky Sports ahead of the clash with Brighton, believes that Martial has shown a great character on the front line and looks like a different player from the one who lived towards the end of his time at Old Trafford.
On how United responded since the Premier League return, Evra said: “I think they benefited a lot from the break, particularly Paul Pogba. I was also really surprised when he came across Tottenham.
“Against Sheffield, I loved the way United played – the spirit, you could see their enthusiasm. Obviously, Martial scored his first hat-trick. I’m really happy.
“Martial, sorry my French, he needs someone who kicks his … every game.”
Evra added: “I think it had a brilliant start when it was playing under Van Gaal.
“I remember his one episode, unfortunately, disappointed him when they swapped the shirt (number) with Zlatan.
“When he returned, I remember we were on the national team, he received a phone call from the club and they said he had to give shirt # 9, and it was like” No, absolutely not “.
“But later, Mourinho contacted him and said that Zlatan will take No. 9 and you will take No. 11.
“It’s not like I’m going to say that Martial didn’t play well because of that number shirt, but it started from there.
“I remember that at the beginning of the season, I went to Carrington and Martial was really upset and frustrated because he was injured.
“It’s really impressive because the last time I saw him, he didn’t have that enthusiasm and now you have an injury, you want to come back very quickly to make sure you can help the team.
“From now on, I think Man United will get the best of Anthony Martial – not only because he scored his hat trick, but his attitude. He wants to play for Man United. Martial can destroy any defender if he decides.
“That’s why it’s frustrating for many people because you know his talent. He is one of the best No.9, but he needs that aggression to score goals, anger. I think it’s more about his personality. “
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