Former Manchester City forward Sergio Aguero has become the latest person to sing the praises of Lisandro Martinez, who continues to prove the doubters wrong at Manchester United.
Martinez has become a permanent fixture on Erik ten Hag’s teamsheet and is already an integral part of United’s defending and attacking.
The Argentina international faced heavy criticism before he made his first appearance for United, with some experts claiming that his height was going to be an issue.
Former Liverpool star Jamie Carragher has been one of Martinez’s biggest critics, claiming several times that he was going to struggle in the Premier League.
Now, Aguero has spoken out against the unfair criticism, insisting that Martinez has already proved himself and has become a key player for the Reds.
“Lisandro Martinez has proved that size doesn’t matter and his doubters are now eating humble pie,” Aguero told Stake, via the Metro.
“Licha already at Ajax had shown that he is a strong and brave player and that size does not have as much influence. He was a figure in that team and for a reason Ten Hag took him to United.
“I understand that some in England might have doubts, they did not know him. But he only needed a couple of games to show his quality and today not only is he not questioned, but it is said that he is vital in the defensive structure of his team.
“I’m happy for him because he deserves it.”
SN’s verdict…
The criticism aimed toward Martinez was unfair and very odd at times. He had already proven himself at Ajax, in the Champions League and for the Argentinian national team.
Nevertheless, the new fan-favourite at Old Trafford has remained silent through it all and is now proving people wrong every weekend. Despite only joining the club this summer, he’s important to the point where an injury would be disastrous for Ten Hag.
With the World Cup looming large, he will now be setting his sights on a starting place for his country at this winter’s tournament in Qatar.