Erik ten Hag speaks out on return of Casemiro and Martinez to Man Utd matchday squad

Casemiro and Lisandro Martinez have returned for Manchester United (Photo by John Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images)

Erik ten Hag says it’s a major boost to have Lisandro Martinez and Casemiro available again because the duo can ‘make the difference’.

The pair, who have missed the last three months of action, were both named on the bench for United’s Premier League clash against Tottenham.

The Argentine hasn’t featured for United since a 4-3 defeat against Bayern Munich in the Champions League in late September.

The defender was ruled out for three months at the end of last season when he broke his metatarsal and he returned in time for pre-season following an operation.

However, the defender was still feeling discomfort and it was decided that he would go under the knife again to clear up the problem once and for all.

Casemiro has missed three months of action after injury his hamstring in an EFL defeat to Newcastle United in October.

And, though the pair both resumed full training last week, Ten Hag says they will slowly reintegrated into the starting XI.

‘Of course [it’s a boost] when you have quality players back,’ said Ten Hag.

‘That is good for the team, for the quality of the team because at the end of the day the quality of the players makes the difference.’

Eriksen missed the FA Cup win against Wigan on Monday with illness.

But the Dane has gone straight back into the starting XI and Ten Hag says his ability on the ball can make a difference.

‘Ah, he can give the pass. He’s a smart player,’ said Ten Hag.

‘He can make the difference. He scans passes and he can give them.

‘He has the ability and not many players have that.’

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