Rio Ferdinand Explains Two Problems With Lisandro Martinez Signing

Rio Ferdinand has spotted two potential problems with Lisandro Martinez, as the centre back looks set to confirm his move to Manchester United.

If anyone knows what it takes to be a centre back at United then it's Ferdinand, whose partnership with Nemanja Vidic was voted the greatest in the Premier League.

The former England captain was also named the 11th best player in the history of the Old Trafford club, so he knows United pretty well.

That makes him the perfect person to analyse Ajax defender Martinez, as he's on the verge of being reunited with Erik ten Hag, just months after the Dutchman left Ajax.

Martinez is expected to join United soon. Image: Alamy

The Argentina defender, who can also play left back and defensive midfield, was also wanted by Arsenal, and Ferdinand thinks he's a good signing, but also noted two weaknesses in the 24-year-old's game.

"I think he's a good signing," Ferdinand said on his Five YouTube channel, "The more I have looked into him, the better.

"I listened to [Jurrien] Timber [a former United target] and he said that 'I wasn't at my game at a certain point and Martinez always shouts at me' - so he's got that element of being a leader.

"United have needed that for a long time, he will demand of others.

"He is very aggressive, physical and can play.

"His question marks are his height and his pace - they are the only two."

Martinez and Ten Hag have worked together before. Image: Alamy

Martinez is shorter than most centre backs, standing at just 5"9, which is shorter than Ajax teammate Daley Blind who was often considered short when he was at United.

However, he has previously shown that it won't hold him back and fans were impressed with a video of him marking Manchester City's new man Erling Haaland recently.

He's also shown some silky smooth skills with the ball at his feet and Ferdinand also believes that ability will help United against lesser opposition, possibly even in midfield.

Will Martinez replace Harry Maguire at some point? Image: Alamy

"I think it'll be a mix [of centre-back and defensive midfield]. I saw a quote from Ten Hag's assistant and how they were surprised of how well he played in there. I think they can mix it up with him - he can bring protection to the defence, the former West Ham star added.

"But if we're against a lesser team where we will see more of the ball and dominate possession then he may slot back into the centre-back position - he gives us that option in which we're lacking in that area."

United's problems at centre back continue to be highlighted with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof blamed once again for messing up against Melbourne Victory.

The Australian side took a lead thanks to the pair messing up but United at least came back to win the game 4-1, perhaps the addition of Martinez can help them not needing to constantly make up for mistakes.