Wayne Rooney praises Lisandro Martinez and tips Argentina for World Cup success

From hearing chants of ‘ARGENTINA’ at Old Trafford following his transfer to Manchester United, it is not secret that Lisandro Martinez has quickly become a fans’ favourite.

Manchester United legend and all-time top goalscorer Wayne Rooney has heaped praise on the centre-back, suggesting that he will be a ‘big player’ for Argentina at the upcoming World Cup. It’s worth remembering that ‘Licha’ has just 10 caps for Argentina but many think Lionel Scaloni will be left with no other choice but to reward the United defender for his form this season.

In a Q&A for The Times, Rooney tipped a Lionel Messi-inspired World Cup triumph for Argentina, saying:

“For me, Argentina are the favourites. Unlike in 2018, they have plenty of good, solid players around Lionel Messi such as Lautaro Martínez, Leandro Paredes, Rodrigo De Paul and of course Ángel Di María. Winning the Copa America last year will have given them confidence and has taken a bit of pressure off them. The climate will suit them too. The only thing they are missing is a No 9, that focal point in attack, but I think they will be really dangerous.”

Additionally, Rooney went on to praise Martinez and thinks he will be a big player for Scaloni this winter:

“I really like Lisandro Martinez. Watching him for Manchester United recently, he is really composed and aggressive. He is perfect for international football and will be a big player for them.”

Another reason for Ronaldo to cry over Rooney

Ronaldo proved in an interview with Piers Morgan this week that he doesn’t deal well with constructive criticism.

You just know a self-centred Ronaldo will be thinking that Rooney is only tipping Argentina because it would see Messi win the World Cup. He wouldn’t be wrong – I’d love to see Martinez win it!

More Stories Argentina Manchester United Wayne Rooney World Cup