Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez says he spoke out of anger and frustration when launching a scathing attack on the club's hierarchy. The Argentina international criticised United for not strengthening the squad in the summer, following qualification for the Champions League, in comments made after the 2-0 defeat at Atletico Madrid in the Champions League group phase on Tuesday. Martinez said he expected more investment in the United squad and "more from our technical director [Jason Wilcox]."
While he stopped short of an apology, Martinez said he has "belief in my team-mates, our manager [Michael Carrick] and everyone working to help this club move forward." In a social media post, he wrote: "After the match, I spoke out of anger and frustration at not getting the result we all wanted." He added: "Those who know me know how I live football, with passion, commitment and a huge desire to win. And when things don't go our way, it hurts, especially when representing a club with the history and stature of Manchester United."
He said his words reflected how much he wants to see the club competing for the biggest honours. "When I talk about wanting more, I'm talking about the ambition we must all have as part of this club," he said. "These are standards we must all hold ourselves to, starting with me."
United have not won in five games since beating Sabah in the Champions League on 10 September. They have won just two of their nine games this season and sit 13th in the Premier League with six points from as many games. Martinez's contract expires at the end of the season, and United have the option to extend it by another year. Their next game is at Leeds United in the Premier League on Sunday, 18 October.
Source: BBC Sport Football · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing