Manchester United's defensive partnership of Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane have impressed Erik ten Hag following their impressive performances alongside each other.
The Reds needed a victory in the Europa League against FC Sheriff following last week's defeat against Real Sociedad.
Ten Hag reverted to his full strength team, with Martinez and Varane at the heart of the defence.
A comfortable 2-0 victory followed. Jadon Sancho opened the scoring with an excellent goal before Cristiano Ronaldo found his first goal of the season from the spot.
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It was the solid defence, yet again, which gave United the platform in the match.
Whilst the opposition was not incredible, Ten Hag's defensive pairing have been showing their quality against the likes of Arsenal and Liverpool too.
One of the Dutch manager's priorities when he came in would've been to tighten up the defensive situation and that is exactly what he has done.
Impressively, every single win that the Red Devils have had this season has included the partnership of Varane and Martinez.
Adding to that, the French defender has started in every win, whilst every loss has came when he has not started the game.
While there are differing reasons behind the wins and losses, there is no denying that the two defenders have been crucial in bringing a solid base to United's performances.
The Argentine won the Player of the Month award in August for the club by an overwhelming amount, he might've been challenged by his partner if he had started the season instead of Harry Maguire.
Ten Hag has been so impressed by the defensive unit, including the two central defenders.
“We were good in possession but we defended very well," he stated to MUTV following United's win against FC Sheriff.
"Rapha Varane was in there as the leader, he puts everyone in the right position,
"He fits really good together with Licha Martinez.”
Varane had a difficult first season at Old Trafford. This term, however, he's started it extremely well after having a specific summer programme to tackle his injury problems.
On the other hand, Martinez's debut season couldn't be going better and he has shown his appreciation to the fanbase who have taken so quickly to The Butcher.
“I’m really happy and a little bit surprised with that," he answered when asked about the love shown to him from United supporters. "But at the same time I feel very proud.
"To come here to the best club in the world and the people say "Argentina, Argentina", for me it's amazing. Thanks to the fans.”
Topics: Manchester United, Lisandro Martinez, Erik Ten Hag, Raphael Varane, Europa League
Cain Smith