Manchester United‘s recent improvement can be attributed to their solid defense under interim manager Michael Carrick.
Important wins against Manchester City, Arsenal, Fulham, and Tottenham Hotspur have boosted their chances for a top-four finish, largely due to the defensive partnership.
However, they will need to make a change for tonight’s match against Everton.
According to The Athletic, Lisandro Martinez is unavailable due to a possible calf injury.
The 28-year-old has played in the last nine Premier League matches and was on the field for the entire 1-1 draw with West Ham.
After returning this season from a long ACL injury, Martinez quickly became a key player alongside Harry Maguire.
The club hopes this issue will keep him out for just one to two weeks, avoiding another lengthy injury layoff.
This situation opens up a spot for either Leny Yoro or Ayden Heaven to step in.
Additionally, Matthijs de Ligt is still sidelined with a back issue, which further tests United’s defensive resources.
As United looks to improve their UEFA Champions League chances and move up in the standings, Carrick will aim for minimal disruption.
The away match against Everton is considered crucial, and they now face this challenge without one of their key defenders.
Martinez’s injury also raises doubts for upcoming games against Crystal Palace and Newcastle United.
The team hopes his setback will not be severe, especially at this critical point in the season.
With Champions League qualification still within reach and a tough schedule ahead, careful management of his recovery is essential.