Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez could be back in Premier League action against Crystal Palace this weekend, according to a report in Argentina.
The centre-back was confirmed as a late absentee for Monday's 1-0 win against Everton at the Hill Dickinson stadium, having felt discomfort in his calf in the build-up to the match on Merseyside.
Having only returned from an ACL injury late in 2025, caretaker manager Michael Carrick was in no mood to take any risks with the 28-year-old, who has been one of his key players since he took charge last month.
As Man United hunt down a Champions League spot, Carrick will want Martinez back on the pitch as soon as possible, and he might just get his wish.
Lisandro Martinez to 'Resume Training' Ahead of Palace
lisandro martinez
According to Argentine outlet Eldopolis Red, medical tests have confirmed that the discomfort Martinez felt is not a serious injury, and he is expected to return to United first-team training in the next days.
At the time of the news on Monday, it was reported that Martinez's absence for the Red Devils would be 1-2 weeks maximum.
The centre-back is expected to be fine and fit for his nation's Finalissima against Spain in Qatar, which is just over a month away, according to Eldopolis Red.
The report also goes a step further and says that, in principle, he could make his return for the visit of Crystal Palace to Old Trafford on Sunday.
Martinez Proves he is Key United Player
martinez man utd
There is no doubt that Martinez is a big player for Manchester United, and he was missed during his nine-month absence after surgery on his ACL.
Before his return in November, the Red Devils had won just seven of their 18 Premier League matches this term under Ruben Amorim.
Now, in nine English top tier outings since then under Amorim, Fletcher and now Carrick, United have won five as they turned a corner and became serious contenders to finish in the top four.
The Argentine formed a solid partnership with Harry Maguire at the heart of the back four prior to the trip to Everton, and Carrick will be delighted if Martinez is indeed back available for the visit of Oliver Glasner's men.
With a game against Newcastle United at St James' Park 72 hours later, Carrick may need to think about managing the 28-year-old's minutes anyway across the two fixtures.
If there are any doubts for Palace, maybe it would be better to use him against the Magpies instead.
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