Sport
“They Have to Do Better” – Lisandro Martínez Urges Manchester United’s Strikers to Step Up After Narrow Fulham Win
Lisandro Martínez, Manchester United’s resolute center-back, has called on his teammates, specifically strikers Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, to elevate their performances after the team’s narrow 1-0 victory over Fulham. Despite securing three vital points, United’s display was far from convincing, with the match ranking among the poorest of the season.
The match’s only goal came from Martínez himself, whose deflected strike in the second half broke the deadlock. However, the victory was not without its challenges. In the final moments of the match, Fulham had a chance to equalize, but a heroic goal-line clearance by Toby Collyer ensured the three points remained in United’s favor. Nonetheless, the team’s lackluster attacking display left Martínez frustrated.
Speaking after the match, the Argentine defender made it clear that he felt United’s strikers needed to step up their game, particularly Højlund and Zirkzee, who had struggled to make an impact against Fulham. “They have to do better,” Martínez said, acknowledging that while the pair were not receiving the best service, their individual performances were still lacking.
“There’s no doubt they’re good players, but I think we can do more to help them. We need to put them in better positions, give them better service, and find them in dangerous areas where they can be more effective,” Martínez added. “In this league, the center-backs are tough, and it’s not easy to play against them. But we must continue to improve, find better ways to get the ball to our forwards, and create more chances.”
While Martínez’s comments were constructive, they also highlighted the bigger issue United faces: their strikers have been underperforming. In the current season, Højlund and Zirkzee have combined for just five Premier League goals. Their struggles in front of goal have been evident, and the Fulham match only further underscored their lack of involvement in attacking situations. A graphic from Sky Sports showed the minimal impact both forwards had during the game, with neither player getting many touches in or around Fulham’s penalty area.
It’s clear that United’s forward line is not firing on all cylinders, and that has raised questions about their future in the team. Martínez, who is known for his leadership and ability to motivate his teammates, believes that the responsibility lies not just with the strikers but also with the rest of the team to create better opportunities for them.
“Rasmus and Joshua are doing their best, but we have to be more precise with our passing,” Martínez explained. “When we send long balls to them, they’re fighting against two or three defenders. It’s difficult, especially in the Premier League, where every defender is strong and experienced.”
Despite the frustrations, Martínez did acknowledge that the situation was not entirely the fault of the strikers. “We have to work together as a team,” he said. “It’s not just about the forwards. The entire squad has to take responsibility for helping our attackers get into better positions to score.”
In terms of statistics, Zirkzee’s performances have been somewhat mixed. While he’s shown glimpses of his talent, he’s struggled to make a significant impact in most games. Højlund, who was signed in the summer to add more firepower to the team, has also found the going tough in his early Premier League campaign.
Their lack of goalscoring contribution has been a concern for manager Ruben Amorim, who might now be considering changes in the January transfer window to strengthen the attacking options. For now, however, Højlund and Zirkzee have a chance to prove themselves, with Zirkzee potentially earning more playing time due to Højlund’s recent form.
The pressure is mounting on the two forwards. In a team like Manchester United, where expectations are always high, the need for clinical finishing and consistency is paramount. The club’s hopes of competing for the Premier League title and securing Champions League qualification depend on their ability to score goals and deliver when it matters most.
Martínez’s call for improvement serves as a reminder that United’s attacking issues are not solely down to individual players but also a collective problem that requires urgent attention. With the upcoming fixtures demanding better performances, the strikers will need to step up and show that they can handle the pressure.
As the season progresses, United’s pursuit of silverware will depend heavily on their ability to find a rhythm in attack. While their defense, anchored by Martínez, remains solid, it’s clear that the club’s future success hinges on finding a solution to their attacking woes.
United fans are hoping that this season will be different and that their strikers will rise to the occasion. If Martínez’s rallying cry is heard loud and clear, there may yet be a chance for Højlund and Zirkzee to prove their worth. The time for improvement is now, as Manchester United seeks to build on this hard-fought win and push for greater success in the Premier League.
In the coming weeks, United’s attacking struggles will remain a key talking point. With several important matches on the horizon, it’s clear that the strikers must find their form to ensure the team’s continued success. Whether it’s through better service from midfield or improved finishing, there is no room for complacency in the quest for glory.
As Martínez aptly put it, “They have to do better.” And that starts with stepping up in the next match and making a more decisive impact. The pressure is on.
-
Sport2 months ago
“I’m not trying to criticize Ancelotti, but I’m not happy with him for benching that player”: Bellingham Expresses Frustration Over Ancelotti’s Tactical Decision
-
Sport2 months ago
Arsenal Poised for January Swoop on €70 Million Star Dusan Vlahovic
-
Sport2 months ago
BREAKING: Manchester City vs Liverpool Clash Cancelled! Title Race Takes a Twist
-
Sport2 months ago
WHAT ON GOD’S GREEN EARTH DID WE JUST SEE?!
-
Sport2 months ago
Real Madrid: Carlo Ancelotti’s Surprising Revelations About an Unexpected Quality of Vinicius
-
Sport2 months ago
Chelsea Players Facing Suspension as Yellow Cards Mount
-
Sport2 months ago
BREAKING: Arsenal’s Champions League Quarterfinal Opponent Revealed After Monaco’s Dramatic Win – Tough Challenges Await Arteta’s Men
-
Sport2 months ago
Key Arsenal Player Set for Return as Gunners Face Struggling Everton