Ten Hag backs Martinez to succeed

Martinez became the Reds' third summer signing last month, joining from Ajax and has since gone on to feature in both of our opening two Premier League encounters. 

Ten Hag insists that, despite some external questioning of the defender in the aftermath of the loss to Brentford last time out, the Argentina international was still able to show his capabilities in the tough circumstances of the defeat in the capital.

Following a difficult first half all round, United entered the break against the Bees four goals down, with Martinez one of three players Ten Hag decided to switch at the interval.

The former Ajax man was replaced by Raphael Varane, with Tyrell Malacia and Scott McTominay also introduced in place of Luke Shaw and Fred at the Gtech Community Stadium.

''I don't think it was a tough 45 minutes anymore than any other player on the pitch,'' began Erik, when quizzed on how the 24-year-old is adapting to the demands of English football.

''I saw from his stats he won his aerial duels and his individual challenges.

''He was always good with his passing and he also made some mistakes as did the whole team. I could have swapped 11 players.''

Martinez and co will now be looking to produce a response to the loss during Monday night's meeting with Liverpool, something the manager believes his players have the quality to do.

''They are a good team if they do what they have to do.

''In football, it is not always working like you plan because you have to face an opponent, that is clear. But if you work hard and stick to the plan, the result will come.''