Scholes claims Manchester United star isn’t a good centre-forward

Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has claimed that one of the club’s current stars is ‘moody’ and not a ‘good centre-forward’.

One of the biggest reasons that Manchester United managed to secure a top four finish in the Premier League last season was their forward line. While Bruno Fernandes might have received most of the plaudits, it is undeniable that the front three of Martial, Rashford and Greenwood stepped up when the team needed them the most.

It has been a different story this season though. While Rashford has continued to fire in the goals, Martial and Greenwood have not quite hit the ground running.

Especially disappointing has been the Frenchman. He is yet to find the back of the net in the league and his bad form has led to Paul Scholes questioning whether he is suitable of playing at centre-forward.

As reported by Football 365, the Manchester United legend told BT Sport:

"“Martial’s strength… we’ve spoke about him being a centre-forward, he’s not a good centre-forward.“I don’t think he’s got that movement for centre forward, he’s not good with his back to goal. But when he gets the ball and he’s facing someone, it’s a different position. You see him going at someone.”"

He did admit that he is someone who can get three or four goals when on song:

"“Definitely. He’s a little bit moody and you see him. But once he gets a goal there’s every chance he’ll go on to get three or four.”"

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Martial is someone that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has heavily relied upon during his time at Old Trafford as manager. During his time under Mourinho, the Frenchman was in and out of the team but nailed down a spot last season for the Red Devils.

In 48 appearances, he scored 23 goals and provided 12 assists while playing mostly as a centre-forward in 2019/20, by far the most impressive season of his career. Unfortunately, he has not been able to carry that form into the new season.

It would be wrong to jump on Martial for being out of form for a couple of months though. He has shown that he can succeed while playing through the middle. Yes, there are certain aspects that he lacks in as centre-forward. But it would be wrong to completely write him off.