'Size doesn't matter': Evra uses Mertesacker example to highlight Martinez's qualities

Patrice Evra has rated Lisandro Martinez as one of Man United's best signings in recent times. Speaking on his Vibe with Five YouTube channel, he said: "This is one of the best signings we’ve had for years at Manchester United.

"It’s because of his fighting spirit. That’s what United fans want to see – those players have to bleed for the shirt.

"People were talking about his height and I was laughing. Some people said I was too small when I arrived in the Premier League as well. When you play with that heart and passion, size doesn’t matter.

"When he gets the ball, he is so clean and composed. Mexico were pressing everywhere [in the World Cup Group C game] but every time he got the ball he was calm and playing forward. That’s what I love.

"He doesn’t play those one-metre balls to the next player. This is easy. When I see those stats – I remember Mertesacker at Arsenal, the stats said he never lost the ball – but he was passing it one metre, I can do that every day.

"But Martinez puts the ball through the lines like Michael Carrick. That’s what he does and I love that. What a player, what a player."

Mertesacker, who is 1.98m tall, made more than 200 appearances for Arsenal during his seven-year spell at the Emirates, helping them win three FA Cups.

Meanwhile, Martinez, only 1.75m, joined United from Ajax last summer. He is currently at the World Cup with Argentina.

Source: Vibe with Five YouTube channel