5.9 C
Manchester
Sunday, December 8, 2024
Other SportsMartinez set for two-month absence in blow for Manchester United

Martinez set for two-month absence in blow for Manchester United

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez will reportedly be sidelined for around two months with the knee injury he sustained against West Ham on Sunday, though the Argentine will not require surgery to rectify the problem.

According to widespread reports, Martinez sprained the medial collateral ligament in his right knee when he went down following a freak collision with Vladimir Coufal on Sunday.

Martinez, who only returned to action last month after recovering from a broken metatarsal, was replaced by Raphael Varane in the 71st minute of the match, which United won 3-0.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Former Manchester United chief executive Gill excited about Ratcliffe era
Stokes proud of ailing England for sticking to ‘Bazball’ principles
Red Bull launch Christian Horner investigation

It was initially feared that the Argentine had suffered anterior cruciate ligament damage and could be ruled out for the rest of the season.

United boss Erik ten Hag described Martinez’s latest fitness setback as a “disaster” after Sunday’s game, but reports on Monday suggested he had avoided a season-ending injury.

Martinez is expected to spend around eight weeks on the sidelines, and an absence of that length would see him miss at least eight Premier League games, including United’s trip to the Etihad Stadium to face rivals Manchester City on March 3.

Martinez has only made seven league starts this season, with Ten Hag easing him back into action after his earlier foot injury kept him out for over three months.

His most recent fitness issue comes as a major blow after United appeared to be approaching full strength for perhaps the first time this season.

Harry Maguire started alongside Martinez on Sunday and he will now compete with Varane and the fit-again Victor Lindelof for a starting spot.

Harry Carr
Harry Carr
Harry is a freelance sports journalist with experience of working for the Racing Post, Stats Perform, Opta Analyst and more, covering major events across all sports but holding a particular love for the beautiful game.
Latest
Subscribe to our newsletter
Business Manchester will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing.
Don't miss

More News