Alan Shearer’s blunt verdict on Anthony Martial being Man Utd’s leading striker

Alan Shearer didn't hold back when asked about Manchester United forward Anthony Martial's chances of holding down the starting spot in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team.

United's striker situation has been a heavily contested one, with the club believed to be keen on bringing in a new forward this summer.

Solskjaer is said to want a new centre-forward at the end of the season as well as a new centre-back.

That move will likely push Martial out of the side, with the Frenchman currently failing to impress when leading the line.

Martial has just seven goals in 32 appearances across all competitions this season – the majority of which have been as a lone striker.

The Frenchman is said to be determined to cement his spot as the club's starting forward, but Shearer doesn't have much faith.

When asked about Martial's chances of being United's leading striker, Shearer expressed he doesn't feel he has the desire.

"I’ve read that Martial wants to be Manchester United ’s main centre-forward and that he sees it as his position," he said to The Athletic. "I don’t.

"He’s been there for six years. Last season was his best in terms of numbers, but he’s never scored more than 20 league goals in a campaign and I just don’t see the desperation, the hunger, desire and know-how to be a No 9, to score as many goals as he should.

"I see the talent but that isn’t enough at a club that wants to challenge for the biggest honours.

"Martial is quite content to spend time outside the box, which is one of the reasons they signed Edinson Cavani and why, if fit, he’s ahead of Martial in their strongest XI."

United brought in Cavani on a season-long contract before the current campaign began, and has looked impressive so far.

The Uruguayan has only started 12 games across all competitions, but has seven goals from his 24 total appearances.

With just a few months remaining until he has the chance to become a free agent, United are yet to extend his contract for a second year.

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