Anthony Martial 'physically ready' for Premier League, says Louis van Gaal

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal was delighted with his side's goals

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has hailed all three of his side's goals in the 3-1 win over Liverpool - and praised the goalscoring display of Anthony Martial.

Daley Blind fired the hosts in front after a well-worked free kick before Ander Herrera scored from the penalty-spot after being brought down by Joe Gomez.

Anthony Martial came off the bench to score on his Manchester United debut

Martial came off the bench for his debut and scored United's third with a superb solo effort after Christian Benteke had pulled one back with an acrobatic finish.

Van Gaal was impressed with what he saw from 19-year-old Martial, who joined United for £36m plus add-ons, and believes the Frenchman is ready to take the Premier League by storm.

Magic Martial seals Utd win

Anthony Martial scored on his Manchester United debut in the 3-1 win over Liverpool

"The goal of Anthony was not a bad goal, I think," he said.

Advertisement

"It was also a match for him because Liverpool had to come as we were ahead. He had a lot of space, so it was easier to bring him on.

"But he did alright - he scored a marvellous goal, and I've also seen that physically he can play in the Premier League."

Also See:

After a low-key opening period the game opened up massively in the second half, with Blind's goal coming just four minutes after the restart.

Image: Martial replaced Mata with 25 minutes remaining against Liverpool

Van Gaal brought Memphis Depay off at half time and introduced Ashley Young, who immediately made an impact as he won the free kick which led to Blind's fine opener.

The United boss admitted he was happy with his side's domination in the first 45 minutes, but he was disappointed with the lack of chances they created.

"I think we played better in the first half," he added.

Daley Blind was delighted to score in Manchester United's 3-1 win

"We had far more control, but we didn't create too much - I think two chances and a lot of possibilities in the first phase, but the last pass was not so good.

"That's why I changed Memphis, to improve that last pass, and also Mata.

"The second half has been characterised because of the goal. That is a consequence of our meetings and our tactical sessions with set plays.

Image: The Frenchman produced an excellent run before firing in United's third

"That has paid off. I'm very happy with this goal because that is what we have practised in many training sessions, and now it's coming out.

"The first goal is, of course, the goal that decides the match because after that they have to come, and then we get more space.

"Because of that we could score the second goal - very good running in behind from Herrera, a fantastic pass from Michael Carrick. I was very proud, also of the way he hit the penalty."

Outbrain