Thursday 7 November 2019 14:38, UK
Manchester United forward Anthony Martial has admitted his Euro 2016 campaign with France was “disastrous”.
The 20-year-old started only one game in the tournament, a 2-0 win over Albania, but was hauled off at half-time to be replaced by Paul Pogba after a lacklustre display.
Martial was an unused substitute in France's next four games against Switzerland, Republic of Ireland, Iceland and Germany before being introduced in the 110th minute of the hosts' 1-0 defeat to Portugal in the final.
He was unable to replicate the form which saw him establish himself as a cornerstone player at Old Trafford last season and Martial admits he was worn out after his first season in the Premier League.
"It was a very difficult Euros, disastrous - we didn't manage to win the title and I spent it on the bench," Martial told French TV. "It happens, I am young. I am going to learn from that.
"It was the first time I had played so much for my club but that is not an excuse. I should have been better."
France manager Didier Deschamps admitted earlier this week Martial's form at Euro 2016 was not what he was hoping for but said it is natural for a player so young to go through ups and downs.
"He was the first one who was not satisfied. I spoke with Anthony about this Euros," Deschamps said.
"He arrived there exhausted because he had a very long season. He's a young player; he has to go through moments like that.
"He was expecting more from the Euros and me too. But, the things were more difficult. He has to learn from this to progress."
Deschamps restored Martial to the starting line-up for the 3-1 friendly victory over Italy in Bari on Thursday and was rewarded when he opened the scoring.
Martial clinically finished a fine through ball by United team-mate Pogba and admitted afterwards he was relieved to get his first goal of the season and his first in 13 caps for France.
"I had been waiting for that for 13 matches," Martial said.
