Erik Ten Hag has always had faith in the former Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez despite doubters criticising the Argentine for his height.
Manchester United Erik Ten Hag has stated that he has never doubted his new signing Lisandro Martinez despite criticism from pundits.
The Argentine was criticized for hist height after he signed for Red Devils this summer and most believe he would not fit to the style of Premier League.
The World Cup winner has proved his doubters wrong following his performance at the centre back and also his motivation of other players.
Speaking about the defender Ten Hag claims he never doubted Martinez and that he knows the potential the Argentine posses which made them buy him.
“No, I never had [a] doubt,” said Erik. “That’s why I brought him in. Because I know he has high potential and if he works [hard] then there is a huge progress, there is huge space for improvement.
“And now he is returning from the World Cup, there is another challenge to go, because that experience is so emotional and now you have to manage that as a player.
“Opponents will be even tougher against him and that is a good challenge. And if you survive the challenge, you are going to be a better player.
“That is the type of player that Lisandro Martinez is. He likes performances, and he likes challenges.”
Ten Hag has been forced for play midfielder Casemiro and left back Luke Shaw following the absence of Martinez in the team.
After helping Argentina win the World cup the defender is back and would be available for selection against Wolves in the Premier League.
“I think it is already a boost [the World Cup win],” Erik said in his pre-match press conference. “I think already he is a player who is convinced in himself.
“He has high belief, but I think also this experience will strengthen him even more and he has to bring that in the squad.
“I think Argentina, they played to win, in contradiction to many other nations who play not to lose. I think also that mentality has shown many times in Manchester United.
“[He is] proactive and that’s what I like. And when he can show that more, it will help us more.”
