Van Nistlerooy: Anthony Martial 'looks like the out-and-out striker that is needed'

Former Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistlerooy reckons costly summer signing Anthony Martial is the man to lead the line for a side desperate for a prototypical striker.

"He looks like the out-and-out striker that is needed," van Nistlerooy told reporters Tuesday at PSV Eindhoven's training ground.

And he should know. The 70-time capped Dutch international scored 95 goals for United in 150 appearances, filling the role of a traditional No. 9 for Sir Alex Ferguson's side, a position the 2015-16 version needed arguably more than any other.

"If Martial keeps doing what he did against Liverpool he could be a revelation," the Dutch national side assistant manager said. "On the other side is it really realistic to expect that from him? Hopefully for United he can be the one."

Following Martial's account-opening strike against Liverpool on Saturday, van Nistlerooy's expectations are tempered like those of many United supporters, and like most, he had never heard of the 19-year-old Frenchman.

"I didn't know anything about Anthony but it could be one of those unexpected successes.

"He needs time, but he looks like he has a lot of quality."

Van Nistlerooy worked under United gaffer Louis van Gaal during last summer's World Cup, and understands what his countryman is searching for from a tactical perspective.

"I know what van Gaal is looking for. I see that coming.

"First van Gaal wants to be in control defensively and from there he builds on and I think that is what you are going to see throughout the season. I think they are going to get the base and then play better and better as the season goes on.

"I am a fan of his. He has done this at four or five clubs. He always does it."

The ex-PSV striker is fond of his former colleague and thinks the club's struggles are not down to him, rather the players wasting opportunities.

"I don't think I would have found it frustrating in this United side. There are still always chances there."

Van Nistlerooy argues that perhaps Martial is precisely the man to take advantage of these chances, playing up top with club legend Wayne Rooney behind him in his best suited role.

"Wayne Rooney is playing in that position but I don't think he is an out-and-out striker.

"Obviously he can fulfill that role and score his goals but it would be a good combination if Martial was up front and Rooney was just off him. That would be a good strike force."