Three of Manchester United’s regular four centre-backs have so far faced time on the side-lines this season due to injury.
Raphael Varane missed United’s trip to Goodison Park last Sunday, and manager Erik ten Hag confirmed the Frenchman won’t play a part in the game against Omonia Nicosia on Thursday at Old Trafford.
Club captain Harry Maguire hasn’t featured for the Reds since their defeat in matchday one of the Europa League against Real Sociedad, with Victor Lindelof having only returned from a back injury last week, meaning the only ever-present defender has been summer signing Lisandro Martinez.
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Martinez, rightfully, has taken a lot of the plaudits in recent weeks, and his partner Lindelof has also been full of praise for the Argentina international.
Speaking ahead of the clash against Omonia, Lindelof said: “He [Lisandro Martinez] is a fantastic player, he’s very good with the ball. I’ve played two games with him now and we did a good game [against Everton].”
United have come out on top in both games the duo have played together.
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The benefits of Martinez being in the back four for United are great, however, one of those are the passing angles the left-footed defender creates.
In the game against Omonia in Cyprus last week, Martinez finished the game with 89% pass accuracy, however, Lindelof believes having a partner with such traits doesn’t affect his own personal game much.
Lindelof said: “I wouldn’t say it [Martinez being left-footed] changes the way I approach it. I’m just trying to play my game and the way I can help the team. It doesn’t matter whether the partner is left or right footed. It doesn’t change how I play my game.”
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United will be aiming to win their third group game on Thursday when they welcome Neil Lennon’s side, and the Old Trafford faithful will certainly be praying for a third straight victory for Martinez and Lindelof.
Topics: Manchester United, Victor Lindelof, Lisandro Martinez
Aadam Haladh