Ray Parlour has named Arsenal summer transfer target Lisandro Martinez in his Team of the Season for his performances in Manchester United colours and defended the centre-back amid question marks over his height.
The Arsenal legend was picking his Team of the Season at the halfway stage of the 2022/23 Premier League campaign, with domestic football currently halted because of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Parlour stated that Martinez, who stands at 5ft9 tall, has been the best centre-back this season, alongside Arsenal’s William Saliba, as he told talkSPORT.
Back in the summer, Mikel Arteta was keen to add the versatile star to his ranks, instead, he secured a £58 million transfer from Ajax to Old Trafford (Sky Sports).
Well, fast forward to the present and he is being lauded for the start he has made in Manchester, despite some raising doubts over whether he could hack the physical side of the English game.
“You know who has come into the team at Manchester United, in difficult circumstances at times, a little bit under pressure,” said Parlour.
“I think Martinez has done really well. I really do. Everybody is saying ‘he’s too short for the Premier League. He’s not going to be able to compete’. But I think he’s been excellent.”
MARTINEZ IS ANSWERING HIS CRITICS
There is still a long way to go, but at this near-halfway stage of the Premier League season, Martinez is certainly making his presence felt.
He might not stand as tall as a Dan Burn, but he is certainly showcasing his aggression, no-nonsense style, and ability to read danger, cover ground and pass out from the back.
Some might not still be able to see past his height, but as the games tick by, those critics will continue to be silenced by ‘The Butcher’ from Old Trafford.
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