Martinez: The partying has finished now

Lisandro Martinez has returned to Manchester following lifting the World Cup in Qatar last month. Having been given an extended break, the Argentinian has returned to training and should feature in tonight’s game against Bournemouth.

Speaking to the club’s official site, Martinez talked about the happiness he felt over being a world champion but is now focussed on bringing success to United.

To be honest, it’s a unique feeling. There is joy. I want to enjoy every second because being a world champion is the ultimate in football. But we’ve celebrated it now, finished all the partying. Now I’m focused here in Manchester and I’ll be working towards [the Bournemouth match] giving my all and getting everything ready for [today’s] game.

I needed a few days of training to get back to full strength and now I feel good. I’m ready. There’s no doubt we’ll be giving it everything.

Martinez is a fans’ favourite already and has revealed that he is shown lots of support when he sees fans out and about.

When I see people in the street they always recognise me and show that affection, that support. What I always try to do is give my all for the team, for the club, to fight to the end and to always try and win games and to have that mindset – so that is why we feel connected to the fans.