Manchester United’s Memphis reacts to his goal against Watford and attacking role

United supporters were anxious they would be without Martial for some time when he left Wembley on crutches following France’s defeat to England with his left foot in a bandage.

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal said he was “amazed” by the spirit of his team after an injury-time goal gave them a 2-1 win at Watford and took them back to the top of the Premier League.

“Memphis needs this goal probably the most”.

The 22-year-old has created three chances in his five Premier League appearances and has settled into the side, with manager Louis Van Gaal showing a considerable amount of faith in a player who struggled with injury last season.

It looked like another quiet afternoon for the keeper as he was untroubled in the first half.

“I can’t explain. I don’t think anyone in the team was expecting the first half”.

Bastian Schweinsteiger turned a loose ball goalwards and Deeney bundled it over the line.

Frenchman Olivier Giroud put Arsenal ahead before West Brom struck back with a goal from James Morrison and an own goal from Mikel Arteta, while Santi Cazorla missed a late penalty for the visitors.

But Van Gaal is now preaching cautious words about the defender’s return date.

Manchester United also went into the match missing several influential players with injuries after the global break, including Wayne Rooney, Anthony Martial, and Michael Carrick.

That said, United have conceded fewer than these three teams, suffering just eight opposition strikes compared to 9, 9 and 20.

Sometimes, Depay was on the left; sometimes, he was through the middle.

Earlier Gomez had been the hero – clawing away Jesse Lingard’s goalbound effort after he’d been set free by the revitalised Depay.

Wednesday’s encounter is crucial in United’s search for European glory.

With many of their attacking players possible absentees, United’s hopes of securing qualification may rest on former PSV talisman Memphis Depay, who ended his long wait for a goal with the opener against Watford. Every player needs a goal or a boost, especially Schweinsteiger and Schneiderlin after the tragedy in Paris.

“I was convinced Shaw would have a very good season”. We gave him a day off to heal the illness. I am a happy coach.

Watford were stiff, edgy and unsure of themselves on the ball in the first half. Deeney struck a ferocious shot at David De Gea but, fortunately for the Spaniard, it was straight at him.