Anthony Martial: On-loan Man Utd star shines on home debut for Sevilla

Anthony Martial made an impressive home debut for Sevilla on Friday evening, just hours before his parent club Manchester United were held to a 1-1 draw by Southampton in the Premier League.

The Red Devils struggled in front of goal against the Saints on Saturday afternoon, recording their third successive draw in all competitions.

Star striker Cristiano Ronaldo has now not scored in six games – his longest spell without finding the net in 11 years – and fellow veteran Edison Cavani was forced to miss the Southampton clash with a groin injury.

The Old Trafford faithful made it perfectly clear how they felt about Ralf Rangnick’s misfiring side at the final whistle, as boos rained down from the stands.

That reaction was in huge contrast to the incredible reception that on-loan Martial received from Sevilla fans at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium after their team’s 2-0 La Liga victory over Elche.

The 26-year-old French forward moved to Spain on a loan deal until the end of the season last month but made an underwhelming first impression.

Martial struggled to make an impact as he made his Sevilla bow in last weekend’s 0-0 stalemate with Osasuna, being withdrawn after 77 uneventful minutes.

However, the new recruit hit the ground running against Elche, entering a bright performance that saw him involved in both of Sevilla’s goals.

Martial played his part in Alejandro Gomez’s 70th minute opener, before turning provider for Rafa Mir to head home Sevilla’s second shortly afterwards.

Aside from those goal contributions, Martial’s work rate throughout the match was also notable. Frequently keen to try and take on opposition defenders, the former Monaco man looked to be enjoying his football immensely, something that can’t be