Erik ten Hag reveals reason behind Manchester United star’s absence in Crystal Palace win

Anthony Martial injury setback sees him miss Manchester United win over Crystal Palace

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has revealed that an injury setback led to Anthony Martial missing the win over Crystal Palace in the Premier League.

Patrick Vieira’s team visited Old Trafford on Saturday (4 February). It became a hard-fought victory for the Red Devils as we held on to the three points, with the game ending 2-1.

Speaking to MUTV (h/t Manchester Evening News), Ten Hag disclosed the 27-year-old’s fitness issues. The gaffer asked for patience about the France international’s return.

“Yeah, he had a setback from the game when he returned. He thought he could build up, but yeah, he dropped a little back, so have to wait, be patient, not to force it.”

Wout Weghorst once again started the fixture against the Eagles, as the Holland international has done for most of the games since his arrival.

United opened the scoring in the fifth minute from the spot, which Bruno Fernandes converted. The Red Devils were awarded the penalty after a handball from Will Hughes.

We had a couple of other chances but went into the break with a one-goal advantage. The Old Trafford side were the dominant side for most of the second half as well. At the hour mark, Marcus Rashford found the back of the net to double our lead.

However, United then made it difficult for themselves after Casemiro was sent off at around the 70th-minute mark. Subsequently, Jeffrey Schlupp managed to get Palace back into the match.

The Red Devils then had to hold on to the lead with a man down. Ten Hag brought on the likes of Marcel Sabitzer, Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof towards the end of the match to sure up the victory.

More Manchester United News

• Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford wins January Premier League Player of the Month
• Manchester United decided against signing Josip Juranovic from Celtic in January
• Manchester United target and Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard to be available for £26.8 million next summer

Martial has been unavailable for most of the campaign due to his fitness issues. As soon as it looks like the 27-year-old may get over the hump, there seems to be a setback. Hopefully, the French national’s fortunes will turn around soon.