Anthony Martial Shines In The Manchester Derby, Solskjaer: He Played Hard, Player Of The Year

United Anthony Martial (right) fighting over the ball with Manchester City defender Ruben Dias in the Manchester Derby (Photo: Antara)

JAKARTA - Ole Gunnar Solskjaer named Anthony Martial as the best player when Manchester United won the Manchester derby with a score of 2-0 over Manchester City at the Etihad, Monday morning.

Martial played a crucial role in MU's opening goal which was scored through the execution of a penalty from Bruno Fernandes, the fruit of Gabriel Jesus' violation against Martial after only two minutes of action.

Outstanding today, Anto 👏

🔴 #MUFC

#️⃣ #MCIMUN pic.twitter.com/6j1Twae76f

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 7, 2021

"It's fantastic. The early minutes really affected the feel of the match and after a minute we got a penalty and a goal," said Solskjaer after the match as quoted by Antara from the official MU website.

"Anthony got the ball and advanced through the opponent's penalty box. Always be positive, that's what we want from the players. I am so happy for all the players, especially Anthony, who had a difficult period. I think he was the best player of the match," he added.

Apart from Martial, Solskjaer also praised the contribution of Luke Shaw, who scored United's second goal five minutes into the second half.

Moreover, the two players were doubted about being able to appear in the Manchester derby.

"It was a good team performance, but especially Anthony and Luke, because when they warmed up they said they were ready to play. I am very happy they can show more persistence," he said.

"We need them, this team needs them and they know that. I am happy for their attitude because in a match like this you have to prove yourself really for Man. United. Get out on the pitch and do your best for Man. United," said Solskjaer.

The result maintains MU's hope of the title race because they returned to second place with 54 points or "only" 11 points behind City.

𝐁𝐈𝐈𝐈𝐈𝐆 performance from the boys!

UP. THE. REDS.

🔴 #MUFC

#️⃣ #MCIMUN@Chevrolet

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 7, 2021

United will next host West Ham United at Old Trafford on Sunday, March 14/3, three days after they played the first leg of the Europa League last 16 against AC Milan.