Erik ten Hag might now have to rely on two Manchester United players who he wanted to sell

In an ideal world, Manchester United would have cashed in on Harry Maguire and Anthony Martial this summer to part-fund their ongoing recruitment drive. However, amid countless early-season problems they have encountered, the club might now have to rely on two previously unwanted players.

The writing had looked to have been on the wall for Maguire and Martial for some time last season. Maguire had the armband snatched away from him this summer - with Bruno Fernandes succeeding him as captain - while Martial could only watch on as his manager spent £73million on a replacement in attacking quarters.

Both players were made available for transfer this summer, but Maguire turned down his proposed move to West Ham after United had accepted an offer worth £30million for the defender. As for Martial, there were seemingly no takers for his signature.

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It is not that Erik ten Hag does not rate the former AS Monaco forward. Quite the opposite, in fact, but similarly to other United managers before him, the Dutchman has been unable to rely on brittle Martial for availability first and foremost, then consistency as and when he has been able to lace up his boots.

The 27-year-old netted six goals in the Premier League last season - from 11 starts - which marks a decent return to underline his ability. Unfortunately for Ten Hag and his evolving United side, though, Martial sightings were few and far between at crunch time, forcing their hand in the market.

Still a sellable asset, the Frenchman was initially earmarked for the scrapheap to help United generate funds to try and sign Harry Kane before his subsequent switch to