Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has now given an update on the situation of Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez.
Following the player’s substitution in the Red Devils’ match against Arsenal at the weekend, there was some concern about his participation in the national team matches during the international break.
As Scaloni today held a press conference, he told the local media that the Manchester United player is fine. In quotes relayed by ESPN, the coach said Martinez did have some trouble on Sunday, and may even miss the first match against Ecuador, but should be ready to play against Bolivia.
“Licha, as you know, had an issue with his feet. By the way, he had surgery a while ago. In the last game he was in pain, went out for precaution. They have done studies and he’s well. He’ll be with us if we want to risk him or not. It’s an uncomfortable situation and we have other teammates who can replace him well.
Argentina play against Ecuador on Friday evening, and they face Bolivia on Tuesday. Those are the opening rounds of South America’s World Cup Qualifiers, and Scaloni will certainly want to have the strongest possible team on the pitch for both of those games.
That comes out as great news for Manchester United, who already have Raphael Varane sidelined, and saw Erik ten Hag’s side finishing Sunday’s match with Harry Maguire and Johnny Evans partnering up in their defence.
