Ten Hag: I never doubted Martinez

The defender, who followed Erik to Old Trafford from Ajax in the summer, re-joined first-team training this week, and looks set to be involved in the matchday squad at Molineux.

Ahead of United’s clash in the Midlands, Ten Hag explained that he is happy to have Licha back after his World Cup success, citing the trophy win as a key catalyst that could take the central defender to the next level.

“I think it is already a boost [the World Cup win],” Erik said in his pre-match press conference. “I think already he is a player who is convinced in himself.

“He has high belief, but I think also this experience will strengthen him even more and he has to bring that in the squad.

“I think Argentina, they played to win, in contradiction to many other nations who play not to lose. I think also that mentality has shown many times in Manchester United.

“[He is] proactive and that’s what I like. And when he can show that more, it will help us more.”

Martinez was criticised in some external quarters at the beginning of his United career for allegedly not suiting the English game but he has since disproved that theory, becoming a key member of a mean Reds defence and a firm fans' favourite.

Speaking of Martinez’s development, Ten Hag says he never once doubted the 24-year-old, adding that he has the capabilities of becoming one of the world’s best.

“No, I never had [a] doubt,” said Erik. “That’s why I brought him in. Because I know he has high potential and if he works [hard] then there is a huge progress, there is huge space for improvement. 

“And now he is returning from the World Cup, there is another challenge to go, because that experience is so emotional and now you have to manage that as a player.

“Opponents will be even tougher against him and that is a good challenge. And if you survive the challenge, you are going to be a better player.

“That is the type of player that Lisandro Martinez is. He likes performances, and he likes challenges.”