Manchester United's Lisandro Martinez set for spell on sidelines with foot injury

Manchester United have revealed that Lisandro Martinez is facing "an extended period" on the sidelines due to a foot injury which he first suffered in April.

The 25-year-old was absent in the latter stages of last season after fracturing a metatarsal, and it is understood that he has had a lot of pain in the area in the opening stages of the 2023-24 campaign.

The Red Devils have now revealed that the Argentina international is set for a spell on the sidelines, with BBC Sport claiming that he could be missing for two to three months.

"Lisandro Martinez will be out of action for an extended period due to an aggravation of the foot injury he suffered in April," read a statement on Man United's official website.

"The Argentinian defender experienced the setback in our Premier League game against Arsenal earlier this month.

© Reuters

"Martinez bravely continued playing for the following two games against Brighton & Hove Albion and Bayern Munich.

"But it has now been determined that he needs a period on the sidelines for recovery and rehabilitation. Assessment is ongoing to decide next steps.

"Everyone at Manchester United sends Lisandro our best wishes and looks forward to him coming back as soon as possible."

The South American has made six appearances at club level this season, but he has been absent for the team's last two matches against Burnley and Crystal Palace.

© Reuters

Martinez was in impressive form for the 20-time English champions during the 2022-23 campaign, featuring on 45 occasions in all competitions.

However, he suffered his foot injury in the Europa League quarter-final first leg against Sevilla in the middle of April and was then missing for the remainder of the campaign.

Raphael Varane has made a timely return to fitness, while Victor Lindelof, Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans are also centre-back options for the Red Devils in Martinez's absence.

Sergio Reguilon has also been rule out of Saturday's Premier League clash with Palace, meaning that Sofyan Amrabat could again feature at left-back.

Scott McTominay and Christian Eriksen will both be back in the squad this weekend after recovering from illnesses, while Antony is returning to training with the Red Devils following a period of absence.