'I am very far off': Anthony Martial plays down Thierry Henry comparisons

Anthony Martial says he's no Thierry Henry, and has a long way before he can reach the status of his famous fellow Frenchman.

This summer, Martial made a surprising move to Manchester United for a fee that could climb to as much as £58 million. Since arriving at Old Trafford, the talented 19-year-old showed a turn of pace and comfort in front of goal that has reminded many onlookers of Arsenal legend Henry.

Martial, however, says any comparisons to the World Cup and Champions League winner are premature.

"I know this is a very great player who is a legend in England,"  Martial told French TV . "I do not think we have the same characteristics. Thierry Henry is Thierry Henry. I still have everything to prove. By continuing to work, I will try to reach his level but I am still very far off."

The Old Trafford transfer made Martial the most expensive teenager in the game's history, and the timing and scale of the deal came as a surprise to many, including Martial.

"Basically, I was told 'untransferable' so I thought staying in Monaco," Martial said. "When I knew about the offer, I did not hesitate a second and it was done quickly. I really wanted to continue to play in the Champions League. Van Gaal called me and spoke to my mother who did the translation. When I arrived in Manchester I met him, we discussed at length and it was done quickly."

The interest generated by the transfer -- and his subsequent goal-scoring performances -- has instantly turned the former Monaco man into a household name among football fans. But Martial has a plan for dealing with the newfound notoriety.

"I try to ignore it all. I stay in my bubble, I concentrate on the football, I work and I try to learn English as quickly as possible," he said.