Anthony Martial: Glenn Hoddle backs Arsene Wenger's decision to not sign Manchester United star

Tottenham Hotspur legend Glenn Hoddle has backed Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger's decision to not sign Anthony Martial in the summer transfer window. The France international joined Manchester United from AS Monaco on deadline day.

Since joining the Red Devils for a fee of £36m ($54m), the 19-year-old has scored four goals in six matches played in all competitions. The Gunners boss revealed he turned down a chance to sign his compatriot as he considered Martial was a winger.

Monaco vice president Vadim Vasilyev confirmed an unnamed club made a better offer than United for the teenager. However, it was Martial's dream to join the 20-time English champion, which forced the Ligue 1 outfit to turn down the offer.

The former Monaco star has impressed so far with his display. Hoddle has hailed United for their "bold and brave" decision to sign Martial.

"I know Arsene Wenger has had some criticism for not signing Anthony Martial, when he was a French player from his former club Monaco. To be honest, though, there wasn't a queue of clubs waiting to sign him. Most clubs wanted to wait another season," Hoddle told the Daily Mail.

"Martial wasn't always in the first XI at Monaco last year. But Manchester United were bold and brave and it may pay off, even though the fee seemed expensive.

"Certainly having Martial and Memphis Depay in the team has improved them, adding pace and strength. Wayne Rooney needed that support. Michael Carrick and Bastian Schweinsteiger are players who need movement in front them, so does Juan Mata.

"They have much better options with Martial and Depay playing. There are plenty of tests ahead before we can say Martial was good value, but at least he has brought immediate improvement to the team," he concluded.

Louis van Gaal takes his men to the Emirates as United face Arsenal in the league clash on 4 October. Martial is likely to lead the Red Devils' attack and the visiting fans will be banking on the Frenchman to showcase his talent against the Gunners.