Martial can play in four positions - Van Gaal

Louis van Gaal believes Anthony Martial can be
effective in four different positions for Manchester
United.

Manchester United attacker Anthony Martial can be a top
performer in four different positions, according to manager
Louis van Gaal.

The 19-year-old joined the Premier League side from Monaco in
August and has made a positive start following his big-money
move, scoring four goals in eight appearances.

Martial was deployed on the left wing during United's 3-0 win
over Everton on Saturday and Van Gaal intends to make full use
of the France international's versatility.

"He can play, in my opinion, four positions," the Dutchman said
to MUTV.

"He can play at seven - as a right-winger, 11 - the left-winger,
the striker's position and also at 10, I believe.

"But he has played in Monaco always in the left-winger position
and that is why I put him there against Everton.

"It was also because of [Seamus] Coleman. I think he is a very
good right full-back so we could take benefit of Martial's
qualities against him."

Van Gaal also explained the tough competition facing 22-year-
old Jesse Lingard, who came on against Everton and has
spoken of his desire to play more often.

"It is not so easy for him to come in," the manager said.

"Lingard's competitor is Juan Mata and his competitor is also,
for example, Ander Herrera or Wayne Rooney.

"Or when he is played on the left - because he can also play on
the left - his competitor was Memphis [Depay]."

United take on CSKA Moscow away from home in the
Champions League on Wednesday.