'Yes..': Erik ten Hag confirms big injury boost, €45m star could return vs Brentford
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has confirmed that Lisandro Martinez could return from a knee injury during tomorrow’s Premier League clash against Brentford on the road.
The Argentine has not played for the Red Devils since picking up a knee injury in the 3-0 win over West Ham United at Old Trafford. He suffered the blow after a poor challenge from Vladimir Coufal.
It was initially predicted that he could be sidelined for two months, but it seems the €45 million-rated star is ahead of schedule in his recovery. Speaking in today’s presser, Ten Hag said:
“Yes, there is a chance [Martinez plays vs Brentford]. We have missed him, he brings composure and calmness to the team. At the same time, a winning attitude and he can express this very clearly. He can transfer that into the team and that contributes a lot to our levels.”
Casemiro, Jonny Evans and Harry Maguire are among those who have been nursing injuries this month. When asked about them, Ten Hag said that a final decision will be made after today’s training session.
He added: “There are players returning, they are back on the pitch they are back in team training. We have one more training now. But it is most likely that we have some players back in the squad.”
Meanwhile, Ten Hag provided further good news by saying that Luke Shaw is expected to return from his muscular problem before the end of the current campaign.
He concluded: “Yes. I expect him back before the end of the season, that is the plan. He is still on schedule. He will return to our team.”
United registered an impressive 4-3 comeback win over Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-final before the international break. Amad Diallo scored a late winner in extra-time.
Amad won’t play any part against the Bees tomorrow. He is suspended for the west London trip after picking up a second yellow card for his goalscoring celebrations.
The Red Devils are currently nine points behind Aston Villa in the race for the fourth spot with a game in hand. They need to build a winning run to boost their Champions League hopes.
Brentford have had a poor season by their standards, but United can’t take them lightly. They will need to be at their best at the Gtech Community Stadium to pick up three points.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com