It’s an early Christmas present for Anthony Martial.
The France international has not enjoyed the most productive spell for Manchester United in recent weeks after exploding into the Premier League at the start of the campaign.
The former Monaco forward has been one of a number of players who have struggled under Louis van Gaal recently, but he’s been given a boost after being named the best young player under the age of 21 in Europe overnight.
The initial list featured several players from Old Trafford including Adnan Januzaj and Luke Shaw, as well as Martial, and the young French man has picked up the award for 2015.
Anthony Martial has won Tuttosport's Golden Boy award. pic.twitter.com/TDlmtivFLz
— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) December 19, 2015
Only three Manchester United players have ever won the award, with Wayne Rooney picking up the gong in 2004 and Anderson, yes, that Anderson, winning it in 2008.
Anthony Martial has won the coveted 'Golden Boy’ Award..
Last Man United player to do so? Anderson. pic.twitter.com/HcAbQyrd0Q
— Footy Accumulators (@FootyAccums) December 19, 2015
Let’s hope Martial does slightly better than the midfielder.
The only downside in all of this is for United, who may now have to shell out an extra couple of million under the terms of his transfer from Monaco to the club.
Some reports, around the time of his signing, had United paying out €5m if Martial he won the Golden Boy. However, French journalist Philippe Auclair says United will have to pay €10m if Martial ever finishes in the top 20 of Europe’s best players.
Unless the 20-year-old starts scoring again, that money is safe… for now.
