Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez issues statement after season-ending injury

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez thanked fans for their “amazing” messages of support upon the news that his metatarsal injury has ruled him out for the rest of the season.

The Argentina star went down clutching his foot in the late stages of United’s 2-2 first leg Europa League quarter-final draw with Sevilla on Thursday, having to be helped off the pitch and then carried down the tunnel.

The centre-half has become a colossus at the back for Erik ten Hag since his summer arrival and his absence comes as a bitter blow for the Reds, who are chasing Champions League qualification.

READ MORE: Sevilla defender Marcos Acuna sends message to Martinez

United are also having to contend without Raphael Varane for the next few weeks after he was taken off at half-time following a knock against Sevilla. They join Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho and Donny van de Beek - whose season is also over - among others on the injury list.

Martinez - who played 45 times and kept 19 clean sheets this term - has now sent a message to United fans, vowing to come back from the injury “stronger” and reflected on his debut season at Old Trafford.

Writing on social media, he said: “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.

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

“The number of messages and support I've received has been amazing, they're giving me strength and encouragement at this moment. Many, many thanks to you all from the bottom of my heart.”

He also tagged Argentina teammates Marcos Acuna