Tom Heaton was full of praise for Lisandro Martinez after Man United’s final pre-season friendly vs Atletico Madrid.
Manchester United’s pre-season preparations are now complete. The early signs under Erik ten Hag are absolutely positive.
Although the Dutchman’s side didn’t get the results they wanted in their last three games, the overall progress made under Ten Hag has been there for all to see. Suddenly, this United side are pressing from the front and playing an attacking-based style of football. That’s been refreshing to see.
Signings that fit the system have been made by Ten Hag, with a move for Lisandro Martinez most recently taking place. The Argentine would make his debut against Atletico Madrid at Old Trafford on Sunday.
We fans were certainly left impressed with the coolness in which the 24-year-old played with. Well, United veteran, Tom Heaton, was the next to be full of praise for Martinez, who he labelled a ‘top player’ for the club and someone he ‘really enjoyed’ playing with.
“I really enjoyed playing with him today, I think he’ll be a top, top player for the club.” Heaton told MUTV after United’s 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid.
“As I say, I thought he was outstanding today and I’m looking forward to watching him this season. For what he brings, physicality, how he uses his body, what he gives you in terms of mobility and on the ball and personality-wise, I think he’s going to add a lot to the team.
“You can see already what he brings. He brings that sort of larger-than-life personality at the back, controlling. I look forward to hopefully playing with him more this year.”
As a goalkeeper, the number one thing is confidence. Shot-stoppers are at their best when they feel completely comfortable. Martinez is someone who absolutely helps out in that regard due to the calmness with which he plays.
The game just feels super casual for Martinez, which is the best way to describe him. He never looks flustered on the ball, is positionally solid at all times and defences with genuine hunger and aggression.
After watching Martinez for a little over an hour, it was easy to see why Ten Hag was desperate to reunite with the player he worked with at Ajax last season.
Now for Martinez, it’s about continuing to work hard and try to break into the line-up for this weekend’s game against Brighton & Hove Albion.
My honest opinion is that this one probably comes a week too soon for Martinez, though I can assure you, Ten Hag will be giving the 24-year-old every last second to try and get him fit enough to start at Old Trafford this weekend.
Do you think Lisandro Martinez will start in Man United’s season opener vs Brighton? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below.
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