Rio Ferdinand picks Lisandro Martinez's best traits in comparison with ex Manchester United star

Rio Ferdinand has compared Manchester United centre-back Lisandro Martinez to former teammate Gabriel Heinze, while coming out in praise of the new United man.

After a difficult opening two games in United colours, Martinez looks to have turned a corner over the past week or so, producing eye-catching performances in the wins over both Liverpool and Southampton. The former Ajax ace has benefited from playing alongside Raphael Varane in the heart of the United defence and has started to show why Erik ten Hag was so keen to be reunited with him at Old Trafford.

He was immense in the 2-1 triumph over Liverpool at Old Trafford last Monday evening, producing a spirited and battling performance. His passion and desire to win at all costs was evident, particularly at the full-time whistle.

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Nicknamed the 'Butcher of Amsterdam' during his days as an Ajax player, he has shown exactly why in his last two United outings, displaying the determination levels that supporters have enjoyed. And for Ferdinand, Martinez is comparable to former United defender Heinze, who spent three years at Old Trafford between 2004 and 2007.

"I love his energy and there's a lot about him that reminds me of Gabriel Heinze," Ferdinand told Vibe with Five. "He's on the front foot, he's aggressive and a bit better on the ball, but there's a lot of that tenacity and Argentinian doggedness and ruggedness.

"He's going to be tested, he's going to have harder games. Che Adams gave him a tough game but he came through it.

"Everyone's talking about his height, you can't get away from that; he's small for a centre-half in England. But, at the moment, he's ticking the boxes and he's answering