“It’s good that he’s back. The defensive line would be more rigid with him around” – Ruben Amorim has received a defensive boost at Manchester United just in time for his first match in charge against Ipswich. Key players returning from injury will strengthen the backline, giving Amorim more options and stability as he looks to implement his tactics and start his tenure on a solid note. This added depth in defense could be crucial in helping United regain form and build momentum under their new head coach.

Manchester United’s new head coach Ruben Amorim will have Lisandro Martinez available for his debut match against Ipswich Town later this month.

Martinez, who transferred from Ajax to United in July 2022, was under the risk of suspension after collecting four yellow cards in the Premier League this season.

According to league rules, players who amass five yellow cards in their team’s first 19 matches receive a one-game suspension.

Martinez’s latest caution came in United’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea, where he received a yellow card for a late tackle on Chelsea’s Cole Palmer.

Although VAR reviewed the incident, the yellow card decision by referee Robert Jones remained unchanged. This was Martinez’s fourth booking, adding to cautions from matches against Liverpool, Tottenham, and Crystal Palace.

A consistent starter, Martinez has begun in 10 of United’s 11 league matches this season, already close to surpassing last season’s league appearance tally of 11, despite injuries affecting his previous season.

Amorim is anticipated to introduce a 3-4-3 formation, positioning Martinez on the left of a back three due to his left-footed skill and ball-handling abilities.

United concluded the latest stretch of matches without Leny Yoro and Harry Maguire, leaving their availability for the Ipswich fixture on November 24 uncertain.

Martinez was joined in the matchday squad by Matthijs de Ligt, Jonny Evans, and Victor Lindelof. Meanwhile, midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is nearing a suspension of his own, having also received four yellow cards.

Should he reach 10 yellows in the first 32 matches, he will face a two-game ban, although yellow cards from the Premier League do not impact Carabao Cup or FA Cup games.