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The replacement of Lisandro Martínez by Erik ten Hag yesterday when Manchester United was chasing the game against Newcastle did not go down well with either the player or the fans.
Martínez was substituted in the 83rd minute along with United’s other centre-back, Raphael Varane.
Victor Lindelof was brought in to replace both of them, as United went three at the back, with Facundo Pellistri the other substitute.
Lisandro was visibly angry with the submarine and was caught on camera hitting the chair on the bench.
pic.twitter.com/1QfPTAGXhW
— Antony Spin ???? (@AntonyyOOC) April 3, 2023
The gamble didn’t pay off as Lindelof was outplayed moments later by Callum Wilson to kill the game.
After the game, Ten Hag explained (via The MEN) that “you try to save the game, go one-on-one at the back, get your two center halves out, bring in a new one, who can defend with space in his back and bring in an extra player in attack with Pellistri”.
Going three at the back is one thing, but removing the player who has arguably been the best throughout the game is something that drew criticism from pundits like Gary Neville.
“Since the two centre-backs left, it’s been a disaster, I didn’t like it,” Neville said (also via The MEN).
“I never see a central defender working, very rarely does he do so. Shaw is playing second center back anyway, you better have a proper one there.”
Lisandro’s stats for the game had been excellent up to this point.
The Argentine posted 81% passing accuracy, won 5 field duels, 4 tackles, played 4 long balls and completed 3 clearances, 2 blocks and 2 interceptions for an excellent overall performance in an otherwise dismal United performance.
Lisandro Martínez’s match by numbers vs. newcastle:
81% passing accuracy 65 touches 5 rushing wins 4 tackles won 4 long balls completed 3 clearances 2 blocks 2 interceptions 1/1 dribble completion
Another first class performance. ???? pic.twitter.com/3FnR0OSUro
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) April 2, 2023
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