More misery for Anthony Martial! Man Utd outcast facing another TEN weeks on sidelines after undergoing groin surgery - with summer transfer now inevitable

The French striker has not played for United since the 3-0 defeat by Bournemouth on December 9 and is now set for an even longer spell on the sidelines after undergoing surgery. Martial has had a rotten run of injuries in his long and disappointing spell with United since joining the Red Devils from Monaco in 2015.

United have said in an official statement: "Anthony Martial has completed successful surgery to address a groin complaint and will be out of action for about 10 weeks as he rehabilitates. We wish Anthony a speedy recovery and look forward to his return."

Martial has had a disastrous season, making only seven starts in all competitions and scoring two goals. He has become a scapegoat for the team's failings, being booed by fans when replacing Rasmus Hojlund against Brighton in September and fiercely criticised by pundits including former United captain Roy Keane. He is almost certain to leave the club in the summer after Erik ten Hag declared there was little chance of triggering the one-year extension clause in his contract, which expires in June.

Martial has not completed 90 minutes for United for three years. The last time was the 2-1 defeat by Sheffield United in January 2021. He has 90 goals in nine seasons for United plus 53 assists and is the longest-serving player still at the club.

Martial will undergo 10 weeks of rehabilitation and could return in time for United's crunch Premier League match at home to Liverpool on April 6. His absence will not be mourned by many United fans but it does leave Rasmus Hojund as the only natural centre-forward available to Erik ten Hag until he returns.