Michael Carrick is cautious about Lisandro Martinez and has yet to decide whether to start Manchester United’s encounter with Leeds United. The Argentine has returned to training after a spell out with a calf injury.
The Reds face Leeds and will be looking to get one over their rivals following a frustrating draw at Elland Road in January. The Peacocks took the lead through Brendan Aaronson, but Matheus Cunha equalised as the two sides settled on a point.
That proved to be Ruben Amorim’s final game in charge before he was sacked and replaced by Carrick. The English coach has overseen a remarkable turnaround, putting his side fully on course to return to the Champions League.
Carrick Gives Martinez Update
Carrick will be taking charge of the 11th game of his second spell as United coach. He knows just how important a win is as his side heads into the final stretch of the season.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference on Saturday, Carrick couldn’t confirm whether Martinez will be ready to start:
It’s just that call that we make. We wouldn’t be pushed into anything. I think it’s important that the boys are ready. It’s as important as the next game always is, being the most important is the bigger picture.So that’s a decision that we’ll take. He’s back training, which is great, and back on the grass. But we’ve certainly got to make the right decision and make sure he’s ready. We’ve spoken a lot about that, he’s still in. He obviously wasn’t there.
Martinez has been sidelined with a calf issue since early February. He’s since missed five games, including Carrick’s first defeat in a 2-1 loss away to Newcastle United.
The Reds will be without Harry Maguire which furthers the need for Martinez to return to the team. Both have been hugely important during Carrick’s reign.
Maguire is suspended for the Leeds game after he was sent off in a 2-2 draw against Bournemouth before the international break. Leny Yoro has filled in for Maguire and will likely partner Martinez should the Argentine indeed return.
Martinez is Needed
With Maguire out of the Leeds game, it’s important Carrick has one of his most reliable centre-backs playing such a fiercely competitive fixture. While Yoro has performed well and Ayden Heaven has caught the eye, their lack of experience might be an issue if they start together.
The Reds need a leader at the back, and Martinez is certainly that, having performed excellently when available this season. He has appeared 15 times across competitions and has yet to taste defeat since Carrick replaced Amorim.
