Rio Ferdinand has identified two potential issues with Lisandro Martinez.
Rio Ferdinand, whose pairing with Nemanja Vidic was rated the best in the Premier League, knows what it takes to be a central defender at United.
The former England captain was also awarded the club’s 11th best player in its history, so he is well-versed with Old Trafford.
That makes him the ideal person to examine Ajax defender Martinez, who is about to reunite with Erik ten Hag, just months after the Dutchman departed Ajax.
The Argentina defender, who can also play left-back and defensive midfield, was also targeted by Arsenal, and Ferdinand thinks he’s a fantastic purchase, but he also pointed out two flaws in his game.
“I think he’s a good signing,” Ferdinand said on his Five YouTube channel, “The more I have looked into him, the better.
“I listened to [Jurrien] Timber [a former United target] and he said that ‘I wasn’t at my game at a certain point and Martinez always shouts at me’ – so he’s got that element of being a leader.
“United have needed that for a long time, he will demand of others.
“He is very aggressive, physical and can play.
“His question marks are his height and his pace – they are the only two.”
Martinez is shorter than most center-backs, standing at just 5″9, which is shorter than Ajax teammate Daley Blind who was often considered short when he was at United. However, he has previously shown that it won’t hold him back and fans were impressed with a video of him marking Manchester City’s new man Erling Haaland recently.
He’s also shown some silky smooth skills with the ball at his feet and Ferdinand also believes that ability will help United against lesser opposition, possibly even in midfield.
“I think it’ll be a mix [of centre-back and defensive midfield]. I saw a quote from Ten Hag’s assistant and how they were surprised of how well he played in there. I think they can mix it up with him – he can bring protection to the defence, the former West Ham star added.
“But if we’re against a lesser team where we will see more of the ball and dominate possession then he may slot back into the centre-back position – he gives us that option in which we’re lacking in that area.”
United’s problems at centre back continue to be highlighted with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof blamed once again for messing up against Melbourne Victory.
The Australian side took a lead thanks to the pair messing up but United at least came back to win the game 4-1, perhaps the addition of Martinez can help them not needing to constantly make up for mistakes.
Source: www.ghnewslive.com
