Michael Carrick has firmly dismissed concerns over Lisandro Martínez’s recent behavioral issues, insisting the Argentine defender’s commitment remains unshakable ahead of Manchester United’s crucial Champions League clash against Roma. Following a high-profile red card against Chelsea and subsequent fines for comments directed at director of football Jason Wilcox, Martínez is expected to retain his starting spot in Tuesday’s match. Carrick emphasized that while mistakes and emotional reactions are part of the game, the player’s dedication to the squad is not in question, signaling a clear path forward for the defender.
Manager dismisses attitude doubts as Man Utd seek to end 38-year losing streak
The stakes are exceptionally high for the Manchester United manager, who faces pressure to secure a positive result to stabilize his position. The team is currently navigating its worst run in 38 years, having failed to win any of its last nine matches across all competitions. With defeats against Atlético Madrid and Como already on the record, United sits 21st in the Champions League league phase. A victory over Roma is viewed as essential not only to improve their European standing but also to provide momentum before Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Aston Villa.
Carrick’s public support for Martínez serves as a strategic move to unify the squad during a turbulent period. By addressing the “attitude” narrative directly, the manager aims to shift focus back to performance and results. The upcoming visit from Roma offers a tangible opportunity to reverse the negative trend, with a win potentially alleviating immediate job security concerns and restoring confidence in a dressing room that has struggled to find consistency this season.
Source: The Guardian Sport
