Rio Ferdinand has pointed out how Lisandro Martinez is helping his teammates adapt to the changes Michael Carrick has introduced at Manchester United.
Michael Carrick hasn’t exactly reinvented the wheel at Manchester United, but the results under him have been much improved. That’s not to downplay the work he’s done. The 44-year-old club legend has made a noticeable impact since taking over.
One of the main differences is that United are now starting games with a back four rather than three centre-backs and two wing-backs. There’s also more balance in midfield, with Casemiro joined by Kobbie Mainoo, while Bruno Fernandes is finally playing in his preferred No.10 role.
These adjustments have contributed to a four-match winning run since Carrick took over as head coach until the end of this season. The positive results have sparked discussions about whether he should be considered for the role long-term.
There’s still plenty of football left to play, so Carrick and his squad need to stay focused and build on their recent success if they want to secure Champions League qualification for next season.
Rio Ferdinand has words for Lisandro Martinez’s ‘bravery’
United have recorded two clean sheets in the four games since Carrick took charge, providing a solid foundation for their improved form.
It’s helped by Carrick quickly settling on his preferred back four, a group that hasn’t given him any reasons to make changes so far.
The trip to West Ham offers another chance for United to add another clean sheet and three more points to their tally.
Martinez has shown great composure and confidence alongside Harry Maguire. It’s no wonder Rio Ferdinand had plenty of good things to say about him before the match.
“There’s a bravery in taking the ball; there’s big risks with the distance he allows between him and the forward. Why he does that is he passes beyond that striker and that striker can’t react and make a difference in the next phase of play.”
He added: “He wants to make a difference in the play. Most centre-halves the midfielders will come and get the ball off them. Man United midfielders are like ‘he’s good enough on the ball, we’ll move around away from him because he’ll find us somewhere to impact the game.’”
Lisandro Martinez’s record against West Ham
Since arriving at United in 2022, Lisandro Martinez has three wins over West Ham. He has also experienced defeat in the fixture, a 2-1 loss to the Hammers in 2024.
Across five games against West Ham with Martinez involved, United have conceded only three goals. The team also kept two clean sheets during those matches.
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