Lisandro Martinez was a concern in the 4-3 win over Wolves when the centre-back injured a ligament in his leg in the Molineux tie.The influential Argentina international was sent off in the 86th minute after a typical solo performance in the Black Country.
He began his first Premier League start since September with a superb second-half goal, stopping Max Kilman’s header from Pedro Neto’s cross in the penalty area. Television footage showed Richa wearing an ice pack and a bandage on his left foot, with his previous metatarsal problem casting doubt on his ability to play in Sunday’s home game against West Ham United.
However, coach Erik ten Hag seems to have allayed those concerns. Speaking at this weekend’s pre-match press conference at Old Trafford, he insisted that replacing Martinez with Harry Maguire was part tactical and part tactical, with Wolves looking to put pressure on their players. A chest with added height in the final stage of a pulsating encounter.”It was a precaution,” admitted Sgt.
“I had to get a grant because Rasmus [Hoylund] died with all his execution, so I got him! By the way, I needed an extra header, but I think it’s too far even for Licha. We took Harry with us. Additional headers for Rasmus and Omari Forson.”Ten Haag will also need to work closely with Casemiro, who recently returned and said he will see the best of the Brazilian once he gets more into his rhythm.
The midfielder was booked early on and controversially missed the penalty when Neto went down in the penalty area, and after much consultation at Stokely Park, VAR ruled there had been contact with our number 18.Casemiro’s yellow card convinced Eric to replace him, but his fitness training also played a part. Besides, he still has work to do,” the manager said of the highly decorated 31-year-old. “And Case, I know the more games he plays, the better he’ll be.
But he needs playing time, so make the most of it right now. “Besides, I could get kicked out for another foul, so I couldn’t risk it.”The South American duo will bring aggression and quality and will hope to feature in Sunday’s clash with David Moyes’ men.
