Manchester United are hoping an injury ravaged second half of 2023 clears up now we are in 2024.
The early signs this new calendar year look promising. Lisandro Martinez and Casemiro rejoined full first team training earlier this week at Carrington, after months on the sidelines.
While this weekend’s upcoming FA Cup clash against Wigan is expected to come too soon for both players, they should be targeting the later Premier League game against Tottenham at Old Trafford.
The match is the only league game scheduled in January, and it is one Erik ten Hag‘s side are desperate to win.
Lisandro Martinez thrilled to be back
A terrific first season for Lisandro Martinez was cut short by injury early last year. It meant the £46 million addition from Ajax missed the FA Cup final.
Martinez then suffered another injury in September and underwent surgery. Now he is almost ready to return.
He sent a message out on Instagram showing how thrilled he is to be back, closing in on a long-awaited return to action.
Martinez gets support from Tottenham star
Martinez’s comeback was celebrated by his international teammate Cristian Romero, who put club rivalry aside to express his happiness to see his friend back to full training.
Even though this could be bad news for his Tottenham side, Romero was pleased for Martinez all the same.
Romero himself is expected to miss the game against Manchester United after suffering his own injury last month.
One player who will be available is goalkeeper Andre Onana, who has controversially seen his travel to play in the AFCON delayed, a decision which has prompted some unhappiness among Manchester Unitd fans, willing to see Altay Bayindir get a chance.
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