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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Jamie Jackson

Manchester United staff believe lack of leadership felt in Martínez’s absence

Manchester United’s Lisandro Martínez grimaces in pain after sustaining an injury in February.
Manchester United’s Lisandro Martínez grimaces in pain after sustaining an injury in February. Photograph: Dave Thompson/AP

Manchester United's coaching staff believe their squad has too few vocal leaders and that the injured Lisandro Martínez has been sorely missed in that regard.

The defender has been unavailable for 37 of United’s 48 games this season owing to foot, knee and calf problems, including Monday’s humiliating 4-0 defeat at Crystal Palace. The Guardian understands Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff have noticed how much quieter the changing room is in Martínez’s absence and believe this had been detrimental to performances and results.

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