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Manchester United laboured previous Rangers to depart themselves in a robust place within the Europa League, grinding out a 2-1 win which went uncomfortably near the wire.
United regarded to have blown yet one more lead in Europe, however an unstoppable Bruno Fernandes winner within the 92nd minute broke Rangers’ hearts and set the Pink Devils heading in the right direction for computerized development within the competitors.
It was an emphatic end and the United captain will take the plaudits, however Lisandro Martinez was the person who pinged the right go to the Portuguese, and he had an immense recreation in each division.
Along with his essential help, the Argentinian defender led from the again, discovering his man with 75 of the 80 passes he tried for an total 94% accuracy – of his fellow starters, solely Toby Collyer may match that determine.
Persevering with his exploits within the attacking third, Martinez got here near opening the scoring with a thumping shot on course within the first half.
However in his extra acquainted position on the left aspect of Ruben Amorim’s most popular again three, Martinez regarded again to his greatest.
No participant recorded greater than his 4 interceptions, and he additionally chipped in with one clearance to frustrate a persistent Rangers risk.
And whereas he didn’t contest many duels, the only aerial duel and single floor duel that he did go for had been each received, for a 100% success fee.
Martinez continues to be a key man in Amorim’s system, making an enormous 91 touches as he was tidy on the again and progressive with the ball; solely Bruno Fernandes (98) took extra.
The fierce centre-back has blown cold and hot this season after comprehensively bossing the backline final season.
He discovered himself on the bench for under the second time this marketing campaign in United’s final match, a chastening 3-1 defeat at house to Brighton and Hove Albion.
However with Leny Yoro seeming to limp off the pitch, Martinez is unquestionably nailed on to bounce straight again into Amorim’s Premier League beginning XI on Sunday towards Fulham.
All stats taken from sofascore.
Featured picture Shaun Botterill through Getty Photos
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