Man Utd to welcome key starter back for Newcastle clash

Manchester United are set to welcome Lisandro Martinez back to the squad for the first time since March when they face Newcastle United on Wednesday evening.

A return for Martinez will come as welcome news for United fans, with the Red Devils defence looking heavily depleted in recent fixtures. Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, Raphael Varane and young Willy Kambwala have all been sidelined, while Jonny Evans has only recently returned from injury.

An appearance against the Magpies will mark Martinez's 12th game of the season, with the Argentine centre-back sidelined for much of the campaign through injury.

Martinez has not featured in Erik ten Hag's squad since March 30, during United's disappointing 1-1 draw with Brentford. He picked up a calf injury in training shortly after recovering from a knee issue weeks earlier.

His most recent ailment has kept him away from the pitch for six weeks, but now the defender may return for the final two games of the season after Ten Hag confirmed Martinez is back in contention.

Speaking ahead of Wednesday's clash, the Dutchman said: "I think [Martinez] will return to the squad. He's done some sessions with us and we plan for him to be available. If this afternoon everything goes right in training, he will return to the squad."

Ten Hag was also asked on the availability of other missing members, to which he replied: "For some other players we have to see: Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, Willy Kambwala, if they are fit enough."

United were without both Rashford and Fernandes during Sunday's 1-0 loss to Arsenal, with a makeshift squad in place to reflect the mounting injuries.

Under-fire manager Ten Hag will rely on two final strong results if he is to remain confident in his position ahead of the new season. So far, his future at Old Trafford remains undecided, but time is ticking for the Dutchman to make a positive impression.

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