Manchester United’s push for a top-four finish has received a significant lift with news that key defender Lisandro Martinez is expected to return for this Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Crystal Palace.
The Argentine center-back, who sat out the recent victory over Everton due to a minor calf issue, is set to resume full first-team training after medical tests confirmed the injury was not serious.
Caretaker manager Michael Carrick has leaned heavily on Martinez’s leadership since taking charge, and his return is seen as vital for maintaining the defensive consistency that has seen United surge back into Champions League contention.
While Martinez edges toward a start, United will still be without Matthijs de Ligt, who remains sidelined with a back problem until at least mid-March.