Erik ten Hag is already being proved right on Lisandro Martinez at Manchester United

When Lisandro Martinez signed for Manchester United in July, Erik ten Hag finally had his 'warrior' at Old Trafford. It was clear that the Reds needed to strengthen in defence, and were crying out for someone who could add some much-needed bite to the heart of the backline.

There were questions as to how he would settle in and cope with the intensity of the Premier League, with several former players and pundits suggesting that his height would see him struggle in the English top-flight. Against Brighton on the opening day of the season, the Argentine lined-up alongside club captain Harry Maguire at centre-back.

The result, and performance of the team, has been spoken about enough, but Martinez was under immediate pressure after struggling to handle former Reds striker Danny Welbeck in the match. Things got worse before they got better, though, as Martinez was substituted at half-time in the 4-0 thrashing at Brentford. His United career had not got off to the start anyone had wished for.

ALSO READ: Man United are taking a risk with their squad options

However, with Ten Hag making the somewhat bold decision to drop skipper Maguire for the arrival of Liverpool on August 22, and bring Raphael Varane back into the fold, Martinez had the backing he needed to kick on and start to deliver.

Speaking about the 24-year-old centre-back following his arrival at the club earlier this summer, Ten Hag claimed that Martinez was a 'warrior' who would be admired by the club's supporters.

"He’s a warrior and I think the fans will admire him. He has an attitude, fighting spirit. He brings aggressiveness in the game, in a good way. I think we need that," the Dutchman told United's club media team.

"But also, he’s also skilful and he can