Anthony Martial expected to miss Brighton clash and doubtful to face Granada

Anthony Martial is expected to be absent for Manchester United’s Premier League fixture with Brighton on Sunday evening.

The forward picked up a knee problem while playing for France during their 2-0 win over Kazakhstan, getting his studs stuck in the pitch turf and receiving treatment for a few minutes.

The former Monaco star was eventually replaced by Kylian Mbappe just before the hour mark and United were waiting for clarification over the injury.

L’Equipe now say the 25-year-old won’t be fit to face the Seagulls at the weekend and is also a doubt for the following Europa League fixture against Granada next week. The Red Devils’ next game after those two is a trip to Tottenham, which could be a more realistic return date should he miss the next two games.

Martial has struggled for consistency throughout the 2020/21 season. After managing 17 Premier League goals last term, the Frenchman has mustered up just four this time around, though his side sit second in England’s top flight regardless of his output.

Martial’s potential absence hands manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer a major selection conundrum ahead of the weekend.

Mason Greenwood was lost to injury during the international break, while Marcus Rashford also had to withdraw from the England squad with a foot problem he has been carrying. Juan Mata is also recovering from a muscle problem.

Daniel James scored Wales’ winner against the Czech Republic and could start on the right against Brighton, while Paul Pogba could also be used in a more offensive position due to the lack of alternatives. Edinson Cavani would be the likely candidate to start up front with main goal threat Bruno Fernandes in the number ten role.

United are 14 points behind Premier League leaders Manchester City and a point ahead of Leicester as they look to improve upon last season’s third place finish.

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