Lisandro Martinez fit to play vs Forest? Man United head coach provides big update
Head coach Ruben Amorim was asked about Lisandro Martinez's availability ahead of Manchester United's clash against Nottingham Forest.
New Delhi: Lisandro Martinez has returned to Manchester United's first-team training after an eight-month absence due to a significant ACL injury. He participated in a training session at Carrington, which is his first since sustaining the injury in February during a match against Crystal Palace.
His return is seen as a massive development for United’s defensive options as the season progresses. The club medical staff has closely monitored the centre back's rehabilitation, and his involvement in training signals big progress towards a potential return.
Martinez suffered an injury in United’s 2-0 loss against Crystal Palace at Old Trafford, when he was stretchered off the field and subsequently required surgery. Since then, head coach Ruben Amorim has been cautious about setting a return date for Martinez, emphasising the priority of his long-term fitness.
His contract with Manchester United runs until 2027. He started outdoor training in late July and was seen performing individual drills earlier this month. Since joining the Red Devils in July 2022, Martinez has suffered several injuries.
He has missed more matches due to injury than he has played for the club, having been sidelined for a total of 92 games and making just 91 appearances. Manchester United have been performing well in the Premier League and have won their last three games. They are currently placed in the sixth position, with 16 points in nine matches.
Head coach Ruben Amorim provides crucial update on Martinez ahead of Forest clash
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Amorim said that Martinez wants to play against Forest, but he is not going and it will take time. The Portuguese manager further added that he started training with the team, but they had to change some things in the exercise for him.
"So slowly he is going to get better. He is really good, he is really good, and he gives us that edge in every training session and that is also really good for us," Amorim added.
Manchester United will take on Nottingham Forest at the City Ground on Saturday, November 1.