MANCHESTER, England – Erik ten Hag expects Lisandro Martínez to be fit for Manchester United's Premier League match against Newcastle United on Wednesday.
Martínez has been limited to just 11 appearances this season due to foot, knee and calf problems. The centre-back has not played since the 1-1 draw against Brentford on March 30, but he should be in the squad to play against Newcastle.
– Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, more (US)
“I think he will return to the team,” Ten Hag said at a news conference on Tuesday. “He has had some sessions with us and we plan for him to be available. If this afternoon everything goes well in training, he will return to the team. We have to see other players; Bruno [Fernandes], [Marcus] Rashford and Willy Kambwala.”
United announced on Tuesday that Raphaël Varane will leave the club at the end of the season. He won't be fit enough to play against Newcastle, but there are hopes he can play against Brighton on the final day of the Premier League season and in the FA Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley on May 25. .
“We are planning, of course, the last matches,” Ten Hag said. saying. “Not tomorrow, but we look forward to Sunday and then, of course, the last game.” [against City]”.
United are eighth in the table with two games remaining.
Anything less than four points from games against Newcastle and Brighton will ensure they finish the season with their worst points total in the Premier League, eclipsing the 58 points they achieved during the 2021-22 campaign.
Ten Hag's side need to finish in the top seven to qualify for Europe thanks to their league position, otherwise they will have to win the FA Cup to earn a place in the Europa League.
“It's a very important game [against Newcastle]”Ten Hag said. “You look at the standings, so it's very important to get the win. “We have to do everything possible to get the victory and we have to fight hard for it.”
