MARTINEZ KNEE INJURY A PERSONAL DISASTER, SAYS TEN HAG

LISANDRO MARTINEZ suffered a knee injury that manager Erik ten Hag called a ‘personal disaster’ for Manchester United’s World Cup-winning defender. The Argentine, starting for just the fourth time since a lengthy absence with a foot problem, was substituted in clear distress after clashing with West Ham’s Vladimir Coufal. The injury took the gloss off an impressive United win, which featured a commanding performance from the defender. He will have tests in the coming days, with Ten Hag reluctant to speculate over the injury’s severity but admitting he is praying for good news. ‘It doesn’t look good, so there’s a big concern,’ said the Dutchman. ‘We have to wait for the diagnosis, then we can tell you more. ‘He is very sad, very disappointed. We are with him. It’s a personal disaster. He is just returning. He is very important for us. He brings spirit to the team, aside from his football ability. Hopefully it is not too bad, we can only pray. ‘He worked so hard to return and now, after four games, it looks like he has to sit some games out again.’ Former United manager David Moyes tasted a heavy defeat back at Old Trafford, and suggested returning South American pair Casemiro and Martinez had been key to the opposition’s recent improvement. ‘In the Premier League, you can see the amount of injuries that have come at different times for different teams this season,’ said Moyes. ‘We’re lacking the structure we want a wee bit. ‘Manchester United are much better now they have Casemiro and Martinez back. They have been struggling a little not having those players, and they have made a huge difference. ‘Martinez gives United a much greater deal of calmness on the ball and in their build-up play. I’m not a specialist on United, but I think he makes them look more comfortable.’