Lisandro Martinez injury update after Man Utd star’s World Cup final heartache as transfer plan revealed

LISANDRO MARTINEZ has handed Manchester United a huge boost after edging closer to winning his battle to be fit for the start of the new season. The defender, 28, was heartbroken when he was forced off with an injury during the first half of the World Cup final. Lisandro Martinez was forced off during the World Cup final Credit: EPA The Argentine was heartbroken after suffering a muscle strain Credit: AP Martinez was then helpless as his Argentina team-mates crashed to a 1-0 defeat against Spain after extra-time. And United were concerned they would be without the former Ajax man when their campaign gets underway against newly-promoted Hull on August 22. Sign up for the Man United newsletter Thank you! But Martinez’s injury is not as bad as first feared after tests revealed he had suffered a muscle strain. And the centre-back, who bagged a spot in the World Cup’s team of the tournament, should be back in time for the trip to the MKM Stadium. United’s medical staff started piecing together a recovery plan as soon as Martinez went down clutching his thigh. And recruitment chiefs also weighed up entering the transfer market for a replacement. But positive news over Martinez’s lay-off has resulted in United deciding not to pursue a fresh option at the heart of the backline. Old Trafford boss Michael Carrick, who was rewarded with a two-year deal after masterminding the Red Devils’ push for Champions League qualification last term, has been prioritising midfield additions. Most read in Sport SUN VEGAS WELCOME OFFER: GET UP TO £100 BONUS Martinez’s injury is not as bad as first feared Credit: Reuters He forked out a whopping £50million to tempt Andrey Santos away from Chelsea. And the Brazilian was quickly followed through the door by Youri Tielemans. The Belgian joined in a £35m deal after United triggered a bargain release clause written into his Aston Villa contract. Karl Darlow has also been recruited as a back-up goalkeeper following his decision to snub fresh terms at Leeds. Manchester United are not looking to replace Martinez Credit: Getty Injuries limited Martinez to just 18 Premier League appearances last season. And he was controversially sent off for pulling Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s hair during the loss to Leeds in April. Comment now