In a season of promise, draws, redemption, draws, public criticism, redemption and more draws, is there time for one more under-performing star to get it right?
Anyone that caught the freeze-frame image of Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s hyper-extended knee will have expected grim injury news to follow. This afternoon, it duly did.
The Swedish striker has reportedly strained two ligaments in the same knee and is not likely to feature again this season. Ibrahimovic will join Juan Mata, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling on the sidelines. None of the quartet are expected to return.
It is fortunate for United, then, that the likes of Jesse Lingard, Marcus Rashford and Henrikh Mkhitaryan are stepping up with important contributions and goals. Hell, even Ander Herrera has discovered the goalscoring touch.
Ibrahimovic’s loss will be keenly felt in the league and European run-in, though, so it is no surprise to see a host of United fans calling for the recall of one man – Anthony Martial.
Seven goals and four assists in 33 games [22 starts] has been the 21-year-old’s modest return this season, a season in which Jose Mourinho has criticised his work-rate and attitude.
Still, with nine [possibly 10] games left this season, there is plenty of time to follow in Marcus Rashford’s steps and get back into Mourinho’s good graces.
Get praying
Sadly Zlatan and Mata out, hope we can see more of an improved Martial 🙏🙏🙏
— Tanmola (@Gfreaky1) April 21, 2017
Do or f**king die
Losing Zlatan is a big blow. Rashford has to continue elevating his game. Martial needs to step up. Do or die time.
— Steven Beck (@beingbecks78) April 21, 2017
Time for Martial to step up with Zlatan put for the season. Could be a make or break time for Martial. Needs to grab the opportunity #MUFC
— Jit (@ProudRed82) April 21, 2017
Making the mo(i)st of a bad situation
https://twitter.com/ClinicalAndreas/status/855472381925707776
Silver lining
https://twitter.com/fantastlsco/status/855478162523869184
Don’t forget Wayne…
No Zlatan, so it's time for Rashford & Martial to rise! & hopefully we'll see Rooney finish on a high, ending his time at Old Trafford #MUFC
— Matthew Davies (@mg_davies) April 21, 2017
