Former Manchester United player, Alan Smith is confident that the return of Lisandro Martinez will provide a boost to Erik ten Hag’s side and help them qualify for the Champions League.

Martinez had been in excellent form during his first season at Manchester United following his transfer from Ajax in 2022 but has had limited appearances this season owing to recurring injuries.

The Argentine had surgery for a foot injury in September last year and then was out of action in February this year after suffering a knee injury during the match against West Ham United.

The defender is now targeting his return against Brentford on Saturday.

Smith believes that Martinez’s return will be a game-changer for Manchester United, as he is an essential and integral part of the team and has been sorely missed this season.

According to him, his left-sided play has been a huge loss for the team, and his return is expected to lift the team’s morale and help them close the gap in the top five.

Asked if Martinez’s return can lift United back into Champions League qualification, Smith told Metro UK via Casinoservice: “Definitely. He’s an essential part of the team, and he’s left-sided which has been a huge loss for them this year.”

Man United is currently in the sixth position in the Premier League table behind Arsenal, Liverpool, Man City, Aston Villa and Tottenham.

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