Former Manchester United defender Phil Jones has praised Rúben Amorim’s handling of Lisandro Martínez’s recovery, calling it “smart management” as the Argentine returns to full training.
Lisandro Martínez has recently joined full training after an extended spell on the sidelines with a serious knee injury.
The Argentina international, who has been sidelined for much of the past year, has gradually reintegrated into the squad under Rúben Amorim’s careful supervision.
United have taken a patient approach to his rehabilitation, ensuring he builds full fitness before considering selection. The 26-year-old has become a fan favourite at Manchester United since his arrival from Ajax, admired for his leadership, intensity, and fierce competitive edge.
His absence has been keenly felt, but Amorim’s decision not to rush him back reflects a long-term mindset aimed at both protecting the player and the team.
Jones praises Amorim’s handling of Martínez
Speaking on the Inside Carrington podcast, Jones said Amorim’s management of Martinez’s return, including his omission from the squad against Nottingham Forest, has struck the perfect balance between trust and caution, a reflection of the Portuguese coach’s growing reputation for tactical intelligence and management.
“I think it’s smart management,” Jones said. “You look at the type of player Licha is and the way he plays his game, you would never want to take that aggression away from him.
“But because he plays on the edge, which is a great thing, you wouldn’t want him to come back too soon. He’s been out for a long period of time, so it’s really good management.
Amorim’s careful integration of Martinez highlights his understanding of player psychology and physical readiness. Known for his high-energy, pressing style, Amorim expects intensity from his defenders, but he recognised the need to reintroduce Martinez gradually to avoid re-injury.
Jones believes that type of foresight is vital, particularly with players who play “on the edge”. Amorim’s approach ensures Martinez’s trademark aggression and bite will return naturally, rather than being forced too early.
Martinez’s mentality can shine through
Jones, who endured his own battles with injuries during his career, was quick to praise Martinez’s mentality and discipline throughout his rehabilitation process. He admitted that recovering from a serious injury can take a toll mentally as much as physically.
“It can be a dark place at times, especially when you’re out for that long,” he explained. “I went through it myself. It’s difficult to see the players going out to train every day when you’re in the gym and just starting your rehabilitation program. It’s very difficult to deal with, and you have to have the right support network around you.”
Martinez’s work ethic and attitude have impressed those in Carrington. His dedication to recovery, coupled up with Amorim’s support, has kept morale high and focus sharp. Jones believes that mindset, one defined by resilience and hunger, is what will ultimately allow Martinez to return stronger than ever.
“He looks in incredible physique at the minute with the pitches you’ve seen, and I’m sure he’s ready,” Jones added. “I’m sure he’s worked so hard to get back, and ACL is always a difficult one to come back from.
“You hear people about either redoing it because they come back too soon or doing the other one because of the compensating. So you have to be really, really focused and honed in on how you manage those injuries.
“He’s done incredibly well to get back, so he just needs to bide his time a little bit longer, but I’m sure the manager will manage that.”
AMorim has shown with his management of others, such as Shaw and Mason Mount, that he knows how to handle an injury-prone player to get them up to speed and stay fit. If he can do the same with Martínez, the 27-year-old’s return could have a fantastic long-term effect at Old Trafford.
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