Ruben Amorim stance speaks volumes as injured Man Utd star joined squad for Arsenal clash

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim talked up Lisandro Martinez’s importance after the injured defender attended Sunday’s big match with Arsenal at Old Trafford

Ruben Amorim and Christian Eriksen paid tribute to Lisandro Martinez after the injured Manchester United defender was seen supporting his team-mates against Arsenal.

The Argentina international, 27, was ruled out for the rest of the season last month after sustaining a serious knee injury in the defeat to Crystal Palace.

Martinez has since undergone ACL surgery and is not expected to be back in action for some time. But that didn’t stop him from spending time inside the Old Trafford dressing room on Sunday, where United drew 1-1 with Arsenal.

And the centre-half was lauded by Amorim when the Portuguese coach was asked about Martinez’s presence.

“If you let him, he can go play today without problem,” Amorim said. “Because he loves the club, he wants to help the team, he understands the context. Like I said, he’s a great character, he’s really important in the dressing room.”

Martinez made 32 appearances for United across all competitions before rupturing his ACL and his absence has been keenly felt in a team which is light on numbers.

United midfielder Eriksen also talked up Martinez after being asked about his presence, and the Dane made it clear that his team-mate’s influence around the place has not waned despite his devastating injury.

Speaking to MUTV after the game, Eriksen said of Martinez: “We see him often at the training ground obviously, so he’s still one of the boys. And we know what he’s going through with his rehab, and a few other guys.

“Anyone who comes and supports the games is a good sign. And, yeah, we’re just waiting for everyone to come back really.”

Martinez confirmed in a statement recently that everything had gone well with his surgery, saying: “Today, after going through several stormy days where I allowed myself to feel and accept my sadness, helplessness, insecurities, fears, and a deep emotional imbalance, I am reconnecting with my essence and my values, which help me see things from a kinder and more positive perspective.

“I feel immense gratitude for the incredible work and support of @manchesterunited, @afaseleccion, my family, friends, teammates, and everyone who took the time to send me a message of encouragement.

“The surgery went perfectly!! Now it’s time to give it my all, with heart and soul, in the rehabilitation process.”

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