Not sure whether I am worth record fee: French striker Martial

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IANS Manchester
Last Updated : Sep 03 2015 | 4:28 PM IST

English Premier League (EPL) giants Manchester United have created a splash in the football world by signing him for 80 million euros ($89.8 million), but young French striker Anthony Martial is not sure whether he is worth the huge amount.

The 19-year-old travelled to Old Trafford from French club Monaco on transfer deadline day for a fee that made him the world's most expensive teenaged sportstar.

"I don't know if I am worth 80 million euros. I am only going for the sporting side. It is quite crazy for a player of my age, but that is the market," Martial was quoted as saying by the Daily Star on Thursday.

"My family were really happy for me that I am going to such a big club. They were definitely a bit nervous given my high price," he added.

But Martial, who has scored 15 goals in 70 appearances for Monaco, insists that the buzz around his transfer deal has not put him under added pressure and he is determined to succeed in the EPL.

"It is my job to show what I can do. I do not feel any particular pressure. I have been told since I was very young that I have the characteristics to play in England. I'm going there for the football side of things -- the price is between the two clubs and I don't see myself under any pressure," the France U-21 forward asserted.

"I am in a hurry to get better and show my worth."

Martial -- scheduled to make his senior international debut during France's friendly with Portugal on Friday -- informed that United manager Luis van Gaal has allowed him the position to chose his playing position.

"Manager Louis van Gaal asked me my preferred position. I prefer to play in the centre but he told me I could play in a number of positions. It is the coach who decides but whatever position I play, I will do the best I can," he said.

Martial could make his debut for United during the EPL clash against Liverpool on September 12.

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First Published: Sep 03 2015 | 4:16 PM IST

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