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| Anthony Martial has already become a key player for United |
GARY NEVILLE believes Manchester United have signed a number nine striker in Anthony Martial.
When Martial joined United for £36m on transfer deadline day, it was thought he would play wide rather than as the lead striker.
But manager Louis van Gaal has played the young forward up front and he has thrived, scoring four goals in all competitions.
After expressing his doubts over Van Gaal's attacking philosophy, Neville believes Martial's arrival has "transformed" United.
He said: "He's made a big difference. He's transformed the front end of the team.
"When he signed we knew he was going to be an exciting signing but we didn't think he would settle in so quickly.
"I watched him on Saturday and what actually shocked me in the game was the elements of the game I did not expect.
"He was playing against John O'Shea and Younes Kaboul, both six foot two, both strong lads, both physical. I was expecting him to get pushed off the ball."
And former England full-back feels Martial is now ready to be United's number nine.
"I was expecting Manchester United to have signed a winger-forward, but what they have actually signed looks like a number nine; someone who can lead the line, and, if he's not scoring goals and not running in behind, provide a point for attacks - and I never expected that.
"In the first three weeks he couldn't have made any greater impact upon me in terms of how he's settled in, the goals he's scored, the threat he's provided, the transformation of the team, but also the fact that he can physically handle himself, push big men out of the way, hold the ball and turn in one movement.
"That's the bit that has shocked me and surprised me.
"It's early days and he's still got a lot to do but I think it's something he should be positive about and United should be positive about."
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