Manchester United star poised for first-team return after international break; huge boost to leaky defence

Manchester United star Lisandro Martinez is set to return to first-team training

Manchester United have received a major boost ahead of a crucial stage in their season, with Lisandro Martinez set to return to first team training after the international break. The Argentine centre back has been out since February after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury to his left knee in the match against Crystal Palace.

Since resuming light training in July, Martinez has remained determined to get back into the side as quickly as possible. That is as per the Daily Mail. However, with a number of centre back options available, the club’s medical staff and manager Ruben Amorim have taken a cautious approach to his recovery.

The 27 year old World Cup winner has been training regularly, including ball work, and underwent an MRI scan last week to assess the progress of his rehabilitation. The scan results were positive, clearing him to step up to the final phase of his recovery and rejoin full training sessions with the squad.

The Butcher back soon?

Amorim and his staff believe Licha’s return could provide the defensive stability and leadership the team has occasionally lacked this season. Part of the squad’s leadership group, and a vocal presence even while sidelined, he continues to be a major influence in the dressing room.

The timing of his comeback could hardly be better. United have already lost three Premier League matches this season. Last week’s 3-0 win over Sunderland at Old Trafford eased some of the pressure on Amorim, but consistency remains the key challenge. The manager is yet to record back to back league victories since taking charge last November, and a tough trip to Liverpool awaits immediately after the international break.

There’s a sense of hope because Liverpool are also not in top-form heading into that game. If United can capitalise on the space left behind on the right side, and focus in the moment, Amorim’s side could walk away from Anfield with three points, in all likelihood.

If he can return fully fit and regain rhythm quickly, United’s defensive structure and confidence could take a significant step forward just when it is needed most. And as far as Liverpool remain concerned, Licha has to look not too far beyond the highlights from our last visit to Anfield…