Carrick confirms two key Man Utd stars could return for Leeds as Martinez decision made
Michael Carrick revealed Lisandro Martinez will be part of the Manchester United squad for Sunday’s meeting against Leeds United.
The Red Devils will have to put their midweek woes behind them, as they desperately need to pick up three points at Elland Road after a miserable start to the season across all competitions.
United’s latest misstep was a 0-2 defeat to Atletico Madrid in their first Champions League away fixture.
That result was overshadowed by Lisandro’s post-match rant, as he shockingly criticised the club’s hierarchy for failing to properly bolster the squad, taking direct aim at Director of Sport, Jason Wilcox.
Michael Carrick confirms Lisandro Martinez back in Man Utd squad
(Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
On Thursday, Martinez met with Carrick and MUFC officials to clear the air. This was followed by a formal apology through the player’s Instagram account.
The Argentine was reportedly fined for his behaviour, but Carrick confirms he’ll be available for selection on Sunday, insisting that the incident is now behind them.
“It was pretty simple, we all understood the situation and what it meant. He made the statement and acknowledged it was a mistake on his part,” said the 45-year-old in his pre-match press conference on Friday afternoon (via the Manchester Evening News).
“We have a really good feeling within the group, the spirit and togetherness.
“He’s part of the squad, yeah. I think he’s released his statement and he’s realised he’s made a mistake.”
Carrick on Mainoo, Shaw & Sesko
(Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
Interestingly, Martinez was said to be furious with the management for failing to provide cover in some areas of the pitch, as Ayden Heaven had to be switched from his original role at the heart of the backline to left-back.
However, Carrick may be able to rely on his first-choice left-back, Luke Shaw, once more, as the latter could make a swift return from injury, and the same applies to Kobbie Mainoo, unlike Benjamin Sesko, who will have to undergo further tests to determine the extent of his condition.
“We’ll see on Luke and Kobbie, Ben is still undergoing a couple of checks,” added Carrick. “Before we update the timelines, we’re trying to be clear on what that looks like.”
The manager didn’t mention Patrick Dorgu or Noussair Mazraoui, who picked up injuries during the international break. Therefore, the duo should remain on the sidelines.
