Monday 27 January 2025 15:48
When Ruben Amorim introduced his tactical system to Manchester United, much was said and written about the suitability of certain individuals to fit the formation.
The head coach has always maintained that good players will be able to adapt and Lisandro Martinez has shown in recent weeks that he is capable of thriving as part of a three-man defence.
The left-footer brings balance to the backline and has been able to showcase his passing ability, something that always caught the eye, even in his time at Ajax.
If we are looking for players to show improvement, Licha is a case in point when it comes to his recent form.
The defender enjoyed a fabulous first season in Manchester but injury hampered his output last term and he only made 14 appearances in all competitions, thankfully returning for the end of the campaign.
It is worth pointing out that we were unbeaten in all eight of his outings in 2024 up to and including the memorable Emirates FA Cup final triumph over Manchester City, when he produced a heroic display before being replaced by Jonny Evans late on.
Martinez has primarily been considered a fierce competitor who loves the challenge of fighting for the badge and defending his goal. A sharp tackler who enjoys physical battles and, essentially, an out-and-out defender.
Yet there are other strings to his bow and they are coming to the fore. Since mid-December, he has racked up four goal involvements. There was the defence-splitting pass for Amad’s winner at Manchester City and the superb shot in off the underside of the bar away to Liverpool – probably our two biggest games on the road in any league campaign.
In the past week alone, he curled a beautiful ball into the box to meet Bruno Fernandes’s run and snatch victory over Rangers in the Europa League and, of course, crashed in the only goal at Fulham to earn three precious points on Sunday.
There could even have been another goal as a fizzing shot produced a great save out of ex-Red Jack Butland in the Gers tie.
Lisandro Martinez was also close to scoring in the game against Rangers.
To put this into context, the Argentina international’s only previous goal for the Reds had come in January 2023, during an unlucky 3-2 defeat to Arsenal.
He had only registered one assist too – for Hannibal’s speculative effort – in the 3-1 home reverse to Brighton & Hove Albion early last season.
So it is quite clear that Licha is enjoying getting forward to good effect and, with the Reds still struggling a little for goals, it is important others chip in. With his left foot looking such a weapon from distance, expect the United fans to be urging him to keep shooting in the coming weeks.
Recommended:
Monday 27 January 2025 15:48
Back to Top
