Manchester United players enjoyed a very wet and rainy training session in preparation for the FA Cup Final.
It was the type of rainy day in Manchester which players would not expect in mid-May. But when there is a cup final on the horizon, you just get on with it.
Even Anthony Martial. The Frenchman has been missing for months, his last match coming in early December against Bournemouth.
He then underwent a groin operation in January, while Erik ten Hag admitted that when he did return to training at the start of month, he did not last the full session.
He has since returned to training as Manchester United build towards Saturday's FA Cup Final.
Anthony Martial looks happy during training session
Anthony Martial has been at Manchester United for nine years, and we have seen it all during that time, the good and the bad.
More recently, it's been the bad. His performances this season have contributed three goals, but really it was his defeated and unhappy body language which really stood out.
Now, with his Manchester United contract expiring, Martial has nothing to lose, and everything to gain from one last shot.
He waved goodbye to Manchester United fans during the team's last home game last week.
But there's a chance Martial could be utilised at Wembley, if he can win over manager Erik ten Hag.
Martial was pictured (top) enjoying a laugh and joke with Manchester United's senior players, Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro during a training drill.
He may be a forgotten man where many fans are concerned, but he is still respected by his Manchester United teammates.
Martial shared on Instagram a picture where he was greeted with a big hug from striker coach Benni McCarthy.
This is his last ever week training at Carrington, and Martial is ensuring that behind the scenes, its not as miserable as his on-pitch contribution.
Martial is United's biggest wildcard
Young winger Amad has emerged as a potential x-factor for Manchester United, while Anthony Martial is the biggest wildcard of all.
Martial is, at this stage, simply battling to try and earn a place in the matchday squad at Wembley. It's an uphill task with other players returning from injury, including Mason Mount.
His involvement will depend on what system Erik ten Hag uses. Will he start Rasmus Hojlund or deploy the Dane as an impact substitute like the last two games.
If Hojlund starts, then Martial might get the role as an impact-maker. He has a track record against Manchester City, scoring five goals against them through the years and winning six times.
One of his best performances came in 2021 when he didn't even score, winning an early penalty in a behind closed doors 2-0 win.
At Wembley, Martial has history, scoring a famous winner against Everton in the 2016 semi-final, sparking jubilant scenes.
That won't compare to the pandemonium he will cause if he scores a winner against City this weekend, to bow out on a high.
Comments