‘Anthony Martial is class... but he seems to hide it' - Graeme Souness’s advice for Man United hat-trick hero

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Matt Davies24 June 2020

Manchester United forward Anthony Martial could become a "top player" if he shows the same enthusiasm as Marcus Rashford, believes Graeme Souness.

The Frenchman became the first United player to score a hat-trick since Robin Van Persie in 2013 as the Red Devils cruised to a 3-0 victory against Sheffield United on Wednesday.

Martial - who was enjoying his finest season to date in a United shirt prior to the Premier Leagues' enforced suspension - continued where he left off, moving level alongside Rashford with 14 Premier League goals this season.

While the 24-year-old has shown glimpses of his quality throughout his United career, it's only now that the performances are becoming more consistent.

And Souness, speaking on Sky Sports after the final whistle, insisted Martial must increase his effort levels if he is to rise to the top.

"The third one [goal] was class, but we know he's class," he said. "He's got everything to be a top, top player - if he could have the same enthusiasm as Marcus Rashford, he could be.

"There's no doubting Martial's a proper player but he seems to hide it. Sometimes he doesn't seem interested."

United moved just two points behind rivals Chelsea in fourth with the win. And with Frank Lampard's men hosting champions Manchester City on Thursday, there is now real pressure on the Blues.

Ole Gunnar Solskaer - who played Paul Pogba alongside Bruno Fernandes for the first time - will certainly be delighted with his side in what was a fluid, dominant performance.

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