Amorim confirms Martinez's return; Manchester United prepare for Crystal Palace match.
2025-11-30 02:57
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim confirmed ahead of the match that Argentine defender Lisandro Martinez is ready to return to the pitch this Sunday for the Premier League match against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
Martinez returned to the bench for the first time in Monday's match against Everton, marking his first close call since being injured in early February. Amorim stated in an interview that as long as a player is on the bench, it means he is ready to play.
Amorim stated, "If he's on the bench, then he's ready. Of course, we'll manage his playing time, but he's ready to play."
Coincidentally, Martinez's last appearance for Manchester United was also against Crystal Palace, at Old Trafford. This reunion adds symbolic significance to his return.
However, Manchester United still face numerous injury problems. Amorim confirmed in Friday's press conference that Matthäus Cunha, Harry Maguire, and Benjamin Sesco will continue to be sidelined.
Amorim had no concerns about whether the 12 noon kickoff time would affect preparations: "If you play for Manchester United, you have to be prepared even if the game is at 7 a.m."
"Time is not important; the environment is the same for both teams. Although it's an away game, we have our own away fans to support us, so that's not a problem."
