“An example” – Lisandro Martinez heaps praise on ‘fantastic’ Man Utd teammate | OneFootball

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez only lavished praise on his young teammate Toby Collyer following Sunday’s victory over Fulham.

The Red Devils only had one shot on target throughout the contest at Craven Cottage. Nevertheless, the Argentine defender’s ambitious long-range attempt proved sufficient, largely thanks to a big deflection that allowed the ball to evade the outstretched Bernd Leno.

Therefore, the 26-year-old admitted he had luck in his favour, considering himself fortunate to find the back of the net.

“I think I was lucky, but it’s an important win,” said the 2022 World Cup winner in his post-match interview with TNT Sports (via BBC Sport).

“I am happy with the way we won the game. It doesn’t matter who scores – the most important is the three points. It means a lot. Not only to the fans, but for us because we have suffered a lot.

“It is a hard win, this club the pressure is hard, but we are here. We know how difficult it is. Even a game like today we have to win and be humble after winning.”

Lisandro Martinez hails Toby Collyer

While Martinez was the unlikely author of the winner, Collyer played an equally decisive role in the victory, pulling off a sensational goal-line clearance to deny Joachim Andersen in the 88th minute.

Therefore, the Argentine defender was full of praise for the young English midfielder who was standing next to him in the interview.

“I am so happy because of this guy [Toby Collyer]. This guy is a big example for the young generation. He is working so hard every day and he is so humble.

Collyer came in for Manuel Ugarte in the 76th minute, and had yet another superb cameo as he continues to climb his way up in the hierarchy. The youngster was grateful for Lisandro’s words of encouragement.

“Unbelievable, coming from a World Cup winner. I couldn’t ask for more really. It was a tough environment and that makes you better as a player and your character. I am looking to improve everyday and help the team as much as I can.”

“I remember clearing it and thinking, ‘has that gone over?’ We did it as a team, together.”