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Graeme Souness hails Lisandro Martinez for Manchester United “influence”
Liverpool icon Graeme Souness has hailed the “influence” Lisandro Martinez has had at Manchester United in the current campaign.
The Argentina international has been solid at the back for the Red Devils for most of the season. In the 25-year-old’s absence, the Old Trafford side have looked a bit shaky in defence.
Writing in his Daily Mail column (h/t Metro), Souness, who was a player and manager for the Merseyside outfit, admits he was wrong regarding the World Cup winner’s move to the Old Trafford side initially.
“I thought Martinez would get found out in the Premier League because of his physique. I still believe that will be an issue for him going forward – but he is one who leads from the front for United and has a big influence on those around him.”
Martinez signed for United in the summer of 2022 from Ajax. The centre-back reunited with Erik ten Hag in Manchester and has been trusted by the gaffer ever since.
The Argentine has formed a formidable partnership with Raphael Varane at the Old Trafford side. The World Cup-winning duo has been the Dutch manager’s preferred option in the defence this season.
While Martinez is not the most imposing figure when it comes to his physicality, the defender more than makes up for it with his tenacity and aggression. As a result, the 25-year-old has become a fan favourite during his short time with the Red Devils.
Unfortunately, the former Ajax star injured himself during the first leg of the Europa League quarter-finals against Sevilla. Subsequently, the Argentine was ruled out for the rest of the campaign.
Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof and Luke Shaw have deputised at centre-back over the last few weeks. However, we have had a number of slip-ups at the back. All three have been found wanting on a few occasions.
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Martinez has established himself as a pivotal player for United. Hopefully, the 25-year-old will continue to ply his trade at the Theatre of Dreams in a similar fashion in the coming future.
