Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk rubbishes criticism aimed at Manchester United centre-back Lisandro Martinez
Manchester United centre-back Lisandro Martinez has been backed by Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk. The Holland international has rubbished the criticism aimed towards the Argentine about his height.
The defender who signed for the Red Devils from Ajax has been doubted over his lack of stature and physicality. Some people thought the 24-year-old would struggle to cope in the Premier League. However, he has thrived under Erik ten Hag in Manchester.
Speaking to United icon Gary Nevile on The Overlap (h/t Express), in partnership with Sky Bet, Van Dijk slammed those who have questioned Martinez because he is relatively smaller than most centre-backs in the game.
“People talking about Lisandro Martinez and his height are talking absolute rubbish. It can help as a centre-back if you’re a bit taller, but what he’s done since coming to the Premier League has been good.
“He’s a good signing for Manchester United, he’s good on the ball, he’s very passionate, so I can only speak positively about him.”
The Liverpool star has been one of the best defenders in the English top flight since his move to Merseyside from Southampton in January 2018. He has helped Liverpool lift the PL and Champions League titles.
Van Dijk is spot on when talking about what Martinez brings to the table. The Argentine’s ability on the ball and passing range have been evident for fans to see this season. And the 24-year-old’s aggression has led to him becoming an instant fan favourite.
While the centre-back did have a tough start in the English top flight, he has bounced back well. United as a whole were underwhelming in the losses against Brighton& Hove Albion and Brentford.
However, after those fixtures, the Dutch manager decided to drop our captain Harry Maguire to the bench and partner Martinez with Raphael Varane. And the Argentine and French duo have been solid for the most part this term.
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The 24-year-old was crowned the Red Devils’ Player of the Month in August. And he has been consistent throughout his time at the Old Trafford side. Thus, Martinez has shut down his critics with his performances on the pitch.
