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Manchester United squandered a number of chances to claim all three points with a 2-0 win over Everton at Old Trafford on Saturday.
United moved up to third in the Premier League table, building a six-point cushion over fifth-placed Tottenham in the process.
The Red Devils were in control from the first whistle and could have won by a comfortable margin if not for the heroics of Toffee’s Jordan Pickford.
United had 21 possessions in the first half, more than they have had in the first 45 minutes this season, but none of their forwards could capitalize.
In the second half, United missed chances before Everton’s mistakes allowed substitute Anthony Martial to earn three points.
The game was a perfect example of why the Red Devils are rumored to be in pursuit of a striker ahead of next season.
In most of their home games this campaign, the Reds have created plenty of openings but goals have not come as often as coach Erik ten Haag would have liked.
Rashford, who was the team’s top scorer, still seems to be adept at scoring goals rather than simply hitting them, while other forwards remain goal-shy.
Martial’s introduction and subsequent icy finish was a reminder of his undoubted talent and why the Dutch boss believed in him when everyone wanted him to leave the club at the start of the season.
The French striker is the team’s best finisher when he is fit, and Saturday’s strike was his 12th goal against the Merseyside side, the most goals against any opponent.
With Rashford out with a possible groin strain, Ten Hag will need Martial to stay fit and fire United in the coming games.
United still have the chance to add the FA Cup and Europa League to their trophy cabinet and United’s number 9 could be crucial.
This could be his last chance to save his United career. It’s time to make Marshall count.
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