Manchester United defender Phil Jones has praised “clinical” Anthony Martial after the Frenchman scored the winner over Burnley last weekend.

Martial produced an excellent finish at Turf Moor to hand his side all three points in what was a tough afternoon against Sean Dyche’s side.

The goal was his 11th of the season despite playing most of his football out-wide and starting around only half of United’s games in all competitions this season.

Martial was heavily linked with moves to both Chelsea and Tottenham in the summer, however team-mate Jones believes he is now establishing himself as a key player for Jose Mourinho’s side.

“It’s a difficult place to come,” Jones told MUTV after the victory over the Clarets. “They throw a lot of bodies in the box, they cross a lot of balls from a wide area, they are a physical team and you have to stand up to it. I think, today, we did that.

“Martial needs one chance and he scores and that is why he is so crucial for us at the moment. He doesn’t need a second chance, his finish was terrific as well.”

As well as praising Martial, Jones also hailed the character of the team as a whole to take three points away from what was a tough fixture.

“When the game is 1-0, you feel strong, you feel good but there is always that vulnerability in the back of your mind,” he added. “They could score at any minute or get a little ricochet and it goes in, but thankfully it wasn’t to be.

“The character, the determination, the fight, the willingness to close down from us was terrific and, when you come to places like this, that is exactly what you have to do. I am pleased for the lads.”

United travel to Yeovil Town tonight for a place in the FA Cup fifth round.