Lisandro Martínez has accelerated his rehabilitation programme ahead of the highly-anticipated FA Cup showpiece.
With the mood at an undeniable low around Old Trafford in the wake of a disastrous London defeat against Crystal Palace, news that fan-favourite Lisandro Martínez is close to a first-team return has offered some much-needed relief.
MailSport reports that the Argentine defender is ‘determined‘ to be available for the FA Cup showpiece against Manchester City and aims to feature across the final three Premier League fixtures – including Sunday’s potential title-altering meeting with Arsenal.
The World Cup winner has endured his most frustrating campaign to date – managing to line out only eleven times for his club during an injury-ravaged season which has seen issues with his metatarsal, calf and knee.
His absence has perhaps been felt most throughout a tumultuous season, with his composure on the field matched by his undeniable leadership.
Endless injuries
During a campaign that has seen Erik ten Hag’s side encounter over 60 separate injuries within his squad, the defence has been the most affected, with over 30 different variations of a back four set-up through 2023/24.
With regular absentees including Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, Raphaël Varane, Victor Lindelöf, Willy Kambwala and Jonny Evans, the loss of the most integral feature of the Dutchman’s build-up play in Martínez has left an undeniable hole in the heart of this team.
Casemiro has recently deputised in the core of the defence and attracted scrutiny for a series of uncharacteristic errors and a general sense that his best days are behind him.
A massive fixture awaits
Next up for the Old Trafford outfit is a home meeting with Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal on Sunday, May 6. The Gunners aim to conclude their season with maximum points and hope Manchester City will falter.
The availability of a fit-again Martínez would offer a degree of confidence that United can creep back towards some form of composure on the field. Given his lengthy layoff, it is unlikely that he would feature from the start, but any minutes he can gain at this stage would be massively beneficial for Ten Hag and his side.
Do you think we will see Licha against Arsenal at the weekend? Let us know in the comments below.
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