Anthony Martial will be a 'great player' for Manchester United, says Wayne Rooney, even though he hasn't seen 'much of him play'

Martial was bought for £36m on deadline day

Anthony Martial joins United for the sum of £36m – but that fee could still rise with add-ons (AP)

Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney admits he knows little about new team-mate Anthony Martial, despite the youngster becoming the world's most expensive teenager.

Louis van Gaal splashed out £36million to buy the winger from Monaco on transfer deadline day.

The deal made waves across the footballing world, but Rooney concedes that, despite the buzz surrounding the 19-year-old, he is largely in the dark about his new team-mate.

"I haven't seen much of him play, to be honest, so I can't say too much," Rooney said on the eve of England's Euro 2016 qualifier in San Marino.

"He was fantastic against Arsenal last season. He's got a lot of ability from what I've seen and I'm sure he'll be a great player for us."

Martial is currently on international duty himself, having been given his first senior call-up by France.

He made no attempt to hide the fact he sees himself as a potential rival for Rooney's place up front this week, admitting he told Van Gaal he prefers to play in a central role.

"He asked me my preferred position," Martial said.

"I prefer to play in the centre but he told me I could play in a number of positions - it is the coach who decides but whatever position I play, I will do the best I can."

PA