Michael Carrick warns he won't rush Lisandro Martinez back for blockbuster Leeds clash as Man Utd boss provides Matthijs de Ligt update

Martinez's Fitness a Concern for United

Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick has insisted he will not be forced into gambling on Lisandro Martinez's fitness for Monday's high-stakes clash against Leeds United. Despite a defensive shortage at Old Trafford, the Red Devils boss is determined to take a long-term view regarding the Argentine's return to competitive action.

Defensive Woes Continue for United

Martinez has been sidelined since early February with a persistent calf injury, leaving a significant void in the heart of the United defence. While the World Cup winner has returned to the grass and participated in a recent training camp in Ireland, Carrick is wary of bringing him back too soon, even with Harry Maguire unavailable through suspension.

• Lisandro Martinez has been out since early February with a calf injury.
• Harry Maguire is unavailable for the Leeds United clash due to suspension.

Michael Carrick refuses to commit to starting Martinez, even though it could mean pairing 19-year-old Ayden Heaven with 20-year-old Leny Yoro to face the physical threat of Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

United's Defensive Options

In fact, Carrick refused to commit to starting Martinez, even though it could mean pairing 19-year-old Ayden Heaven with 20-year-old Leny Yoro to face the physical threat of Dominic Calvert-Lewin.