Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic believes Anthony Martial’s hard work has paid off after winning the Man-of-the-Match award against Watford on Saturday.

The French forward returned to the Red Devils starting line-up, scoring and assisting another goal during their 2-0 victory over the Hornets at Old Trafford in the Premier League.

The 35-year-old striker has praised the professionalism that Martial shows on and off the field.

‘When he plays, he is playing well. He isn’t a guy that speaks a lot; he is quiet and very professional. He always tries to do his best, trains hard and that is paying off, just like in this match,’ Ibrahimovic told the Manchester United website.

‘I think it depends on every individual and what kind of person they are and their approach, how open he is. It is different for every person. He is not going around with his head down. He is training hard, he gives a lot of energy and he wants to play, which is normal.

‘When we eat breakfast and he is beside me or if he passes me, we talk. I think everyone talks to everyone. It is not like you try to cheer him up; it is a good atmosphere and the guys are all good guys, very professional.’

Manchester United will now turn their attention to their Europa League match against Saint-Etienne at Old Trafford on Thursday.

Kick-off has been set for 22:05.