Crocked United ace Lisandro Martinez vows to come back better than ever

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has vowed to return stronger after a foot injury ruled him out for the rest of the season.

The Argentina defender was taken off on a stretcher during United's Europa League draw with Sevilla on Thursday night after fracturing a metatarsal bone in his foot.

"Not the way I imagined what's been a very special season would end, but sometimes we face obstacles along the way that we have to overcome to make us stronger and we learn from them," Martinez tweeted.

"I know that I'll be back soon to go for more. In the meantime, I'll continue to support my team-mates to achieve our objectives."

"The messages & support I've received has been amazing, they're giving me strength and encouragement. Thanks to you all from the bottom of my heart."

The 25-year-old is expected to make a full recovery in time for the start of next season.

Erik ten Hag's side will now be without both first-choice centre-backs against Nottingham Forest on Sunday after Raphael Varane was forced off in the same game.

Meanwhile, Forest boss Steve Cooper insisted Jesse Lingard is committed to the club's bid to beat the drop despite the midfielder's struggles in his first season at the City Ground.

Niggling injuries have punctuated Lingard's time in the midlands since joining Forest last summer after being released by Manchester United and he has made just three appearances since the turn of the year.

Cooper believes these persistent setbacks explain the lack of impact from Lingard, who has featured 16 times for relegation-threatened Forest in the league this season but has yet to score a goal or make an assist.

The 30-year-old England international has been linked with an exit this summer but ahead of a reunion against his