Lisandro Martinez return could be key to Manchester United silencing Barcelona's first-leg danger man

Few in Barcelona last Thursday will have been as relieved as Tyrell Malacia to see Raphinha's number come up with seven minutes left.

Raphinha himself certainly wasn't happy, recoiling in disgust that was so clear even those in the heavens at Camp Nou could see it. The substitutes' bench took a beating not long after with the Brazilian's reaction so furious he was compelled - or forced - to apologise when speaking to the media after the final whistle.

Some might argue that reaction was fair enough, given he had just spent the previous 83 minutes tormenting United's left-hand side. Those who watch Barcelona regularly agreed it was one of the 26-year-old's best performances for the Blaugrana since joining from Leeds United in the summer, the cut inside and cross-shot that levelled the scores typical of an electric and precise performance.

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So when Xavi decided that the 83rd minute was the right time to bring his most dangerous player off, replacing him with Ferran Torres, those of a United persuasion collectively breathed a sigh of relief - not least Malacia. The 23-year-old was by no means below par last week, although left Raphinha in too much space to arc the cross that would eventually glide past David De Gea.

But in such circumstances, during a crunch European tie and facing up to one of Europe's most dangerous wingers, an experienced head may have got a better grip on the individual battle. Unfortunately for the Reds, that option was forced to play centre-back.

Lisandro Martinez's three bookings in the group stages before the World Cup saw him serve a one-game suspension last Thursday, with Erik ten Hag again opting to move Luke Shaw