Sky Sports reported that Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag confirmed the absence of Anthony Martial in the Premier League opening match against Brighton on Sunday.
The Frenchman has been involved in most pre-season fixtures, scoring in three consecutive matches.
The 26-year-old has been involved in a productive front-three of Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford. In the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo, the trio took the center stage in a 4-0 thumping against Liverpool.
When asked about the absence of Martial, ten Hag stated: “Yes. It is always difficult to say with injuries [how long he will be out for]. I hope is it not for too long”.
Ronaldo is set to start on Sunday although his match fitness is in doubt. The Portuguese international missed pre-season fixtures amid speculations of his desire to leave Old Trafford.
Ten Hag criticized the behavior of Ronaldo and other United players for leaving Old Trafford before the final whistle during a clash against Rayo Valecano.
“I certainly don’t condone this. This is unacceptable for everyone. We are a team and you have to stay until the end.”
It remains to be seen if Ronaldo will be involved against Graham Potter’s side in the wake of the absence of Martial.
