Anthony Martial thanks Van Gaal for showing faith

Manchester United star striker Anthony Martial has expressed gratitude to manager Louis van Gaal for showing faith in him, saying that the Dutchman has played a major role in his overall development as a player.

"The boss has shown a lot of faith in me and the fact he has played me in so many games has allowed me to make progress and come on as a player," Martial was quoted as saying by goal.com.

The 20-year-old Frenchman has been one of the few brightest sparks in an otherwise demoralizing campaign for United, scoring eight goals in 26 Premier League appearances.

Martial, who joined the Old Trafford from Monaco in September, believes his season had gone reasonably well under the guidance and influence of Van Gaal.

"On a personal level, it has gone reasonably well. There are occasions when I could have done better. I could have been more clinical, scored more goals and made more assists. Now it is down to me to keep going so I can help the team as much as I possibly can," he added.

United are currently standing fifth in the league table.