Manchester United defender Lisandro Martínez will miss Monday evening’s Premier League clash against Everton due to a suspected calf injury, the club has confirmed.
United hope the latest setback will keep Martinez sidelined for only one to two weeks, with the 28-year-old expected to return to training later this week.
Martinez has started every game under Michael Carrick, forming a solid partnership with Harry Maguire. However, according to The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell, he will not be available for selection against Everton due to a suspected calf issue.
The Argentina international has been a standout performer for Man United of late, forming a strong partnership with Harry Maguire in the middle of the defence. Martinez is seemingly certain to also miss out against Crystal Palace on Sunday afternoon, but he could be back for the trip to Newcastle United on March 4.
Leny Yoro is the player to benefit from Martinez’s absence, with the Frenchman given the nod alongside Maguire at the back for the clash with Everton.
The injury comes as an unfortunate setback for Martinez, who has battled fitness issues throughout his Manchester United career. The 28-year-old had started United’s last nine league matches and played the full 1-1 draw with West Ham on February 10. Martinez has battled injuries throughout his United career, returning in November after a nine-month layoff following an ACL injury to his left knee.
It is understood the Argentine international has only experienced a ‘minor’ calf issue and is expected to be back in first-team training later this week.
Martinez’s absence is a blow to United’s defensive stability, as he has been instrumental in the team’s recent good form under interim manager Michael Carrick. The partnership between Martinez and Maguire has been credited as a key factor in United’s defensive improvement in recent weeks.
The club will assess Martinez’s progress over the coming days and provide further updates on his expected return date following Monday’s match against Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.