MARTI IN A MESSI REVIVAL

LISANDRO MARTINEZ is primed to make his first start at the World Cup – as Argentina turn to the Premier League to keep them in Qatar.

Lionel Messi’s men face a make-orbreak clash with Mexico tomorrow.

Coach Lionel Scaloni is set to bring in Manchester United’s £56.7million man Martinez to reinforce his defence.

Martinez (above) will partner former Manchester City man Nicolas Otamendi in central defence – while City’s 22-year-old striker Julian Alvarez is also in the frame to revive the team following Tuesday’s shock 2-1 defeat by Saudi Arabia.

Argentina’s last opening-day meltdown, against Cameroon, did not stop them reaching the final of Italia 90 – before losing to West Germany.

Midfielder Papu Gomez urged fans to stick with them, saying: “Difficult roads lead to beautiful destinations.”