The Frenchman has revived his Old Trafford career, despite being sent out on loan against Sevilla in January 2021.
Martial returned to United last summer and the club were open to selling him, given he had just two years to run on his deal.
However, after a pre-season tour to Thailand and Australia, Martial had convinced Ten Hag that he should start the season ahead of Ronaldo.
The Dutchman was impressed by how selfless Martial was and how he wanted to bring other members of the attack into play.
Ten Hag also noted how popular Martial was with his team-mates and how there was a more serious side to his laid-back persona.
Injuries have limited Martial to just two Premier League starts this term but he has four goals to his name from seven appearances.
Martial scored from the penalty spot in a 4-2 defeat against Cadiz in a friendly on Wednesday.
Ten Hag made ten changes at the break in order to give the travelling squad playing time.
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