Anthony Martial is pretty darn good at football.The Manchester United striker has come into his own in 2019/20, enjoying his most fruitful campaign in front of goal and establishing himself as one of the world's finest players.For years the Red Devils have been searching for a number nine that they can build a title-challenging team around.Zlatan Ibrahimovic was just a stop-gap, while Romelu Lukaku - after a decent start - failed to meet United's demands.But now, the position is Martial's for the foreseeable and after his virtuoso display against FC Copenhagen last night, we've decided to detail nine reasons as to why the 24-year-old will be United's number nine for a fair ol' while.His highlights from 2019/20 are ridiculously goodWe'll start with a general overview of his exploits this season.Martial has scored 23 goals and assisted another six in all competitions, with the Frenchman turning in a number of match-winning performances.Below, you'll find a short video of some standout moments from Martial in 2019/20 and it's yet more evidence of just how good he has been.He influences games even when he's not scoringLast night against FC Copenhagen, Martial was the best player on the pitch by a country mile, despite the fact he failed to find the back of the net.But that's what the Frenchman brings to the table. He's far from just a finisher. His dribbling ability and eye for a key pass make him a fearsome prospect even if he's not scoring.The definition of a 'modern day striker'.He wins A LOT of penaltiesThe last three of the 21(!) penalties awarded to United this season have been won by Martial.Remember when we said a second ago that he influences games without scoring? Here's more proof.Trying to stop the Frenchman in full flow is a near enough impossible task and it's playing into United's - and Bruno Fernandes' - hands.His link-up play with Marcus Rashford & Mason GreenwoodWatching United's attacking trio feed off each other and play intricate passes between themselves post-lockdown has been a joy to behold.It's reminiscent - though not quite as good yet - of the halcyon days when Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez were toying with defences for fun.United's current trident are all under the age of 24 as well, exciting times.He's capable of scoring spectacular goalsUnited fans crave entertainment from their players.They want to see mazy dribbles and wonder goals from their team, which is why Marital is the perfect candidate to spearhead the Solskjaer era.Below, we've provided one of the Frenchman's best goals of the season against Bournemouth, one that is quietly becoming his trademark.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer loves him
Yes, we know it's a trivial point, but the clear adoration between player and manager is only going to serve both parties well.
After yesterday's game against FC Copenhagen, Solskjaer said: "Physically, he is at the best level of his career and I’m just looking forward to seeing him improve. There’s more to come from him."
The manager's seal of approval is so crucial in the hostile world of professional football.
He's starting to turn up in big games
There was a time when the former Monaco forward seemed to disappear in big games, but that analogy is a thing of the past.
This season, Martial has scored against Manchester City (x2), Chelsea, Wolves and Sheffield United (x3)
Very promising signs.
He's versatile
Were United to bolster their striking department in the summer, Martial will be able to offer his services as a winger, as well as a striker.
Versatility is simply a must-have for players at the biggest clubs in the world and the Frenchman certainly meets the requirements.
His ability to play from the left is also key to him and Rashford exchanging positions on the pitch, something which often leaves opposing defenders scratching their heads.
He's only going to get better
It doesn't take a genius to realise that a 24-year-old is likely to only get better as the years fly by, but it's still a point worth making.
If all goes according to plan, United will have an absolute monster of a player on their hands when Martial reaches his prime.
The future looks bright, very bright.