Man United receive injury boost ahead of Everton clash | OneFootball

Man United Receive Huge Lisandro Martinez Injury Boost

Manchester United have been handed a significant boost as Lisandro Martinez returned to training, marking the latest step in his long road to recovery from an ACL injury. The Argentine defender has not featured for Man United since the 3-1 home defeat to Crystal Palace back in February, but his return to the training pitch offers a timely lift for Ruben Amorim and his squad.

Martinez Steps Up Recovery

After successful surgery earlier this year, Martinez has been steadily building his fitness levels. His progress has accelerated in recent weeks, and United’s medical team were confident enough to let him join up with Argentina during the recent international break. The move suggests that his rehabilitation is reaching its final stages, and his readiness for first-team action is now a real possibility.

Fabrizio Romano reported on Saturday that Martinez would be back in the frame for a return to action with United on his return to England.

Photo: IMAGO

Amorim’s Defensive Dilemma

Ruben Amorim has had to be inventive with his defensive selections in recent weeks. With injuries and potential international absences looming, the Portuguese manager’s options have been limited. Noussair Mazraoui could be called up by Morocco for the Africa Cup of Nations, while Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo are expected to represent Cameroon and Cote d’Ivoire respectively.

That uncertainty makes Martinez’s return even more important. His natural left-footed balance is something United have lacked, forcing Amorim to use Luke Shaw in the left-centre-back role and teenage defender Leny Yoro on his weaker side. Martinez’s reintroduction should help restore a more natural structure to United’s defensive trio, which has been inconsistent since his injury.

Eyes on Everton and Beyond

United face Everton at Old Trafford next, a fixture that could see Martinez named among the substitutes. Given his lengthy absence, it may be premature to expect him to start, especially with Shaw performing well in recent weeks. However, even a short cameo would represent an important step in his full return.

After Everton, United travel to Crystal Palace before hosting West Ham in early December, fixtures that could offer further opportunities for Martinez to regain rhythm and match sharpness. His leadership and composure will be vital as the team looks to solidify its position in the Premier League and maintain consistency heading into the festive period.

Lisandro Martinez’s return comes at a crucial time for Ruben Amorim, who has spoken openly about the challenges of losing key players mid-season. If the Argentine can stay fit, his comeback could transform Man United’s defensive options heading into a demanding winter schedule.