has eased injury fears over after the defender required treatment after coming off against Wolves.
Martinez started his first league game since September on Thursday night
Despite shipping three goals, United looked more assured with the Argentina international back at the heart of defence, making a crucial goal line clearance after Andre Onana failed to collect a corner kick.
Martinez suffered a season-ending foot injury last season in April after breaking his metatarsal in a Europa League clash against Sevilla.
After undergoing surgery,
The former Ajax star was replaced by Harry Maguire after 86 minutes against Wolves but there was concern among United fans when Martinez was seen receiving treatment on the bench.
A member of United’s medical staff was seen wrapping an ice pack and heavy strapping around Martinez’s left foot.
Ten Hag has stressed however the change was a precautionary one.
‘It was a precaution,’ ten Hag said, speaking ahead of Sunday’s league match against West Ham United.
‘I took him off because, actually I had to sub Rasmus [Hojlund] because he was dead with all his running! But then we needed an extra header but, also for Licha, I think he is a long way out. We brought Harry on for [an] extra header and Omari Forson for Rasmus.’
Casemiro also made his full league return having started Sunday’s win over Newport. The Brazil international was booked in the opening minutes of the game and was replaced by Scott McTominay midway through the second-half.
Ten Hag explained his decision to replace the former Real Madrid star was also made with his fitness in mind, along with that early booking.
‘Also, he has to catch up as well,’ ten Hag said. ‘And Case, I know, the more games he is going to play, the better he will be. But he needs game minutes and that is why he takes most benefit from [that], at the moment. Also, with another foul, maybe he [would] be sent off, so I couldn’t take the risk.’
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