Erik ten Hag’s staff feel the absence of Lisandro Martinez for virtually all of the season has cost Manchester United progress this term.

The Argentine was sensational during his first season at the club since arriving in a £56m deal from Ajax.

It was his injury at the end of last season that saw United crash out of the Europa League to Sevilla.

Martinez returned to fitness at the start of this season but he was unhappy with his recovery, and went under the knife again after featuring in the first nine games of the season.

After returning in February, Martinez lasted just two matches before succuming to six weeks out. He returned in April, only to get injured again.

According to the Guardian, Ten Hag’s backroom staff feel Martinez’s absence has cost the side dearly.

United have dealt with an unprecedented injury crisis this season, and Jonny Evans was the only fit, recognised centre-back for Monday’s defeat to Crystal Palace.

Casemiro, Mason Mount, Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo, Rasmus Hojlund,Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire have all endured long stints on the sidelines this season.

But Martinez’s absence has been felt more acutely because he’s one of the few vocal leaders in the dressing room.

Maguire was stripped of the captaincy last summer and the armband was given to Bruno Fernandes.

While the Portuguese midfielder is a leader, his emotions often overspill.

In any case, it’s been in United’s backline that the club have really lacked direction and leadership, particularly with new goalkeeper Andre Onana between the sticks.

For more stories like this, check our sport page.

Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.