Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has displayed his gratitude for a warm Old Trafford homecoming on Tuesday evening.
Our no.6 had returned to training with the Reds shortly before the turn of the year but last night he was back in the matchday squad for the first time since his international triumph, having been named among Erik ten Hag's nine substitutes.
Lisandro received an ovation from his team-mates, staff and the supporters around the ground, while a large flag celebrating the defender was also unveiled in the stands, accompanied by chants of ‘Argentina! Argentina!’.
Having walked out to the centre circle and back with a smile on his face, Martinez returned to the dugout before another friendly greeting from the United faithful upon his inaugural venture down the touchline to warm up, during the first half.
With the Reds 3-0 up in the closing stages, the centre-back was brought on in the 88th minute and notably introduced as a World Cup winner by stadium announcer Alan Keegan.
As he made his way off the pitch again at full-time, ‘Licha’ was clearly delighted with the Reds’ latest victory and grateful for the reception upon his return to Old Trafford.
The Argentinian has since posted his gratitutde on social media, saying: “No words. Thank you to Old Trafford, my team-mates and the staff for this amazing reception.
“Feels great to be back and winning!”
Having come on as a late substitute, Lisandro will no doubt be targeting more minutes now during our next outing, also at Old Trafford, against Everton in the Emirates FA Cup this Friday evening.