Aston Villa v Manchester United: Match in pictures
Anthony Martial has been given a Manchester United lifeline by manager Ralf Rangnick after the German boss declared the drama between the pair was "resolved" on Tuesday.
Martial and Rangnick were in disagreement after United's disappointing 2-2 draw away at Aston Villa when the former Leipzig boss accused the French forward of refusing to play in the game at Villa Park.
United cruised to a 2-0 lead following a Bruno Fernandes brace, but a Philippe Coutinho-inspired performance saw Villa come from behind for a 2-2 draw.
The Brazilian scored and register an assist to leave United fans reeling at more dropped points.
Rangnick brought on Jadon Sancho, Jesse Lingard and Donny van de Beek in an attempt to regain the lead, but the lack of a striking option hurt them.
Anthony Martial refused Ralf Rangnick's claims that he refused to play vs Aston Villa (Image: GETTY)
Martial would have provided attacking nous for the Red Devils, but his absence was criticised by Rangnick, who accused him of refusing to play, something the player himself denied on social media.
Yet the German now claims their issues have been resolved when he faced the press ahead of United's away clash at Brentford on Wednesday.
"All the things that needed to be said I said after the press conference," Rangnick said.
"I had a conversation with him on Sunday, a personal conversation with him about what happened & how I saw the whole situation.
"The matter is now resolved.
"He didn't train yesterday and the day before yesterday. He will probably train today and after training, I will then take the decision if he is nominated or not (for the squad). Let’s see what will happen there."
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Martial displayed his frustration at Rangnick's comments on Instagram following the draw in England's second city.
"I will never refuse to play a match for Man Utd," said the 26-year-old forward.
"I've been here for seven years and I never disrespected and will never disrespect the club and the fans."
With just seven Premier League appearances, one goal and just 67 minutes of Champions League football all season, it is hard to see a route back for Martial to playing regularly again for the club.
Ralf Rangnick has not selected Anthony Martial since December 2. (Image: GETTY)
The striker hasn't played for United since his two-minute cameo appearance against Arsenal on December 2.
And with his contract up in two-and-a-half years, it remains to be seen where he will end up should he move on.
Spanish outfit Sevilla made a loan bid for his services, although they reportedly could not match his wages. United want his salary paid in full as well as a loan fee to let him go.
