Anthony Martial Fears Reportedly Held by Manchester United After Partner Split

Manchester United are reportedly concerned that Anthony Martial's marked loss of form in 2016-17 is a result of his "turbulent private life" following his split from long-term partner, Samantha Jacquelinet.  

According to Chris Wheeler in the Daily Mail, United believe the 20-year-old has been "unsettled" by his split with Ms. Jacquelinet, his partner of three years, earlier in 2016, and the fact that she has subsequently returned to Paris with their daughter, Peyton.

The separation came as a result of Martial allegedly being unfaithful, and the forward has now reportedly been left alone in Manchester, per Wheeler.

The France international came off the bench to score a fantastic opening goal in Sunday's 1-1 draw with Stoke City at Old Trafford, per Match of the Day's Gary Lineker:

It was his first goal in nine appearances this season, ending a drought United will hope indicates a return to form following him being dropped by manager Jose Mourinho from the starting XI.

The Portuguese boss praised the young forward after the draw with the Potters, saying it was necessary for him to get on the scoresheet, per Wheeler: "‘He needs that. It was an amazing goal and a very good initiative. From an individual point of view it was obviously good for him."

Martial's confidence should now be boosted, and he will aim to return to the excellent form he showed in his debut season in English football in 2015-16.

Per Bleacher Report's Sam Tighe, following his big-money move from Monaco to Old Trafford in the summer of 2015, Martial enjoyed a brilliant debut season in the Premier League:

Per WhoScored.com, he netted 11 goals and provided four assists in the English top flight, bursting onto the scene with a superb debut goal against Liverpool and netting a late winner against Everton to see United through to the FA Cup final, which they duly won.

He fast became a fan favourite but, following a disappointing Euro 2016 campaign with France, Martial has looked far from his best at the beginning of the 2016-17 campaign.

Started by Mourinho early in the term, he was dropped for the 2-1 defeat in the Manchester derby early last month and has failed to force his way back into the side on a permanent basis.

Martial's goal against Stoke, though, showed a glimpse of the brilliance he is capable of, and United will be eager for him to put his personal troubles aside and return to top form as they prepare for a crucial stage of the season in the lead-up to Christmas.