Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has said that Lisandro Martinez’s two-month injury layoff is a “big loss” for the Reds, but he also demands that whoever steps in must hit the ground running immediately.
Considering the difference Martinez made to the team after his return from injury in January, that is a blatant observation like pointing out that grass is green or the sky is blue.
The World Cup-winner sustained an injury to his right knee in United’s 3-0 win over West Ham last weekend, and will be out for at least two months as a result.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Ferdinand said: “I think it is a big, big, big loss. I think as soon as he [Martinez] comes back you’ll see the stability.
“I think him and Luke Shaw on the left-hand side bring huge stability. I think Luke Shaw now has to stay fit. If he gets injured now as well, it would be a huge problem for United.”
Some fans have suggested that Shaw could move into centre-back, but then we’re losing our best left-back in his preferred role without any adequate options to fill in the role.
We have seen Harry Maguire play well this season and he is expected to fill the void for now. My biggest concern about that is we won’t be getting the ball forward anywhere near as quick without Martinez. For instance, United still conceded goals with the Argentina international back in the team. The difference is we got the ball forward quicker and scored more goals as a result of our attacking players getting into better positions.
Ferdinand also has warned that whoever Erik ten Hag selects to replace Martinez in the meantime will need to “hit the ground running”.
“Whoever the manager plays – Harry Maguire, [Victor] Lindelof, Jonny Evans – whichever one of those guys come in to replace Martinez have to hit the ground running,” he added.
“I just think fitness is the key – [Raphael] Varane’s got to stay fit as well. Two months is a long time, but hopefully we can get through it.”
This how Martinez impacts the entire team and his loss will be massive. I just hope it doesn’t spoil our top four chances.
Let us know in the comments section how you think United will get on without Martinez.
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