"He’s a warrior, he’s a leader" - Jamie Carragher changes his stance on Manchester United star after previous comments
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher recently changed his opinion on Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez. Before the start of the season, Carragher claimed that Martinez would struggle in the Premier League due to his lack of physicality.
Martinez, though, proved his critics wrong. The Argentine was rock solid at the back for the Red Devils. He helped the team keep 20 clean sheets in 45 appearances across competitions.
Carragher claimed before the start of the season (via Metro):
"That’s small for any player on the pitch in some ways now, really. You think how big and powerful players are. When you think of how that could affect Manchester United set piece wise, if one of your centre-backs is really small, you’re relying so much on the other centre-back to deal with things aerially coming into the box, so I think that could be a problem."
Martinez proved the notion wrong and showcased his qualities in the heart of Manchester United's defense. Carragher has now issued an apology to the player, telling Sky Sports:
"[Too short to play in the Premier League] that’s not about Lisandro Martinez, that’s about any centre-back coming to the Premier League whose well under six-foot, you think is going to have a problem. But he hasn’t and every player has weaknesses whatever that may be, whether it’s physically or technically, and the best players hide the weaknesses. Nobody’s a perfect player. I just looked at him and thought how can you overcome that in the Premier League."
He added:
"He’s a warrior, he’s a leader and when you think of that spine of the team, certainly him and Casemiro, two new signings, they’ve made a huge difference. So apologies Lisandro and all Manchester United fans. Can you stop tweeting me about Lisandro Martinez now please!"
Manchester United looking to reward Lisandro Martinez with a new contract
Lisandro Martinez's performances for Manchester United have been quite spectacular. The Red Devils are reportedly looking to honor the defender with a new contract in the summer.
While the Argentine is currently under contract until 2027, United are looking to offer him an extension and propose improved terms to his current deal. The club want the player to be a part of the team for the foreseeable future.
While the Red Devils have struggled defensively in recent seasons, the partnership between Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane has proved to be a game-changer for the team.