Pivotal United absentee aiming to return from long-term setback in time for FA Cup final

Erik ten Hag will still be navigating a heavily depleted squad when Manchester United take on Manchester City in the FA Cup final on May 25.

He may, however, be granted the much-welcome return of influential centre-half Lisandro Martinez.

The Argentine has endured an injury-plagued season, which has seen him limited to a mere 11 appearances in all competitions, courtesy of three separate setbacks. At the beginning of the term, he suffered a reaggravation of the metatarsal fracture that ended his maiden Old Trafford campaign prematurely.

Back in February and just four matches into Martinez’s return to action, he sustained a knee problem after colliding with West Ham United’s Vladimir Coufal during a 3-0 home win.

He then proceeded to make a 21-minute cameo against Brentford on March 30 before straining his calf in training, and United fans have yet to see him since.

Martinez eyeing imminent return

MailSport reports that the defensive stalwart hopes to get minutes under his belt in the side’s remaining three Premier League fixtures, ensuring he is fully fit and ready to take on Pep Guardiola’s men at Wembley.

When United lock horns with Arsenal at home on Sunday evening, Martinez may be named in the matchday squad, although it remains to be seen if he could be deployed from the offset.