£56.7m Man Utd star ready to 'give everything' for Carrick, poised to start vs Fulham

Manchester United star Lisandro Martinez has lifted the lid on exactly what has changed behind the scenes since Michael Carrick took charge as caretaker head coach.

Carrick could hardly have scripted a better start to his interim reign, opening with a statement victory over arch-rivals Manchester City.

That momentum only grew as his side followed it up with a dramatic 3–2 triumph over Premier League leaders Arsenal.

Martinez was recently asked to pinpoint what Carrick has brought to the dressing room over the past fortnight.

He said (via StanSportFC): “In a short time, for me I’ll say I’m really impressed with him, his body language, energy, communication, the way he trusts the players, the way he talks and connects with everyone.

“It’s unbelievable. The staff as well, very close to the players.

“You need people who understand your quality, and I think [Carrick] is doing that. He’s getting the best out of everybody, not just the players, but the staff. The standard, structure, and demands, are really important.

“And for me, when you touch my heart, I will give everything for you, and he touched it already and you can see that on the pitch we give everything.”

Martinez set to start vs Fulham

Injuries cruelly prevented Martinez from building rhythm and consistency under former manager Ruben Amorim.

Across Amorim’s 14-month spell, the Argentine international was restricted to just 24 appearances in all competitions.

Following the Portuguese coach’s dismissal, reports emerged of a heated training-ground confrontation between Amorim and Martinez in December.

The £56.7 million defender believed he was ready to start matches after finally returning from a long-term injury, but Amorim preferred a cautious approach to avoid any late setbacks.

Despite ongoing criticism, Martinez has repeatedly shown his value to United whenever he has been available.

He played a key role in nullifying Erling Haaland against Manchester City and delivered another composed performance at the Emirates.

His words clearly show that Carrick’s arrival has lifted a dressing room that had been left deflated in the aftermath of Amorim’s exit.

Martinez is expected to retain his place in the starting XI when United welcome Fulham at Old Trafford this weekend.

The 28-year-old is one of the leaders in the squad and will have to play a crucial role if United want to meet their target of securing UEFA Champions League football for next season.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .