Peter Schmeichel has slammed Lisandro Martinez for ‘trying to be the hero’ in Manchester United’s dismal defeat to Brighton, according to Metro. Manchester United suffered their third defeat in the Premier League, losing 1-3 to high-flying Brighton and Hove Albion at Old Trafford on Saturday. The loss was United’s first home defeat in 21 matches, with the previous defeat incidentally coming against the same team in Erik ten Hag’s first game in charge.
The Red Devils started the game brightly, pressed with intensity, and tested Brighton’s defence. The visitors weathered the early storm and dominated the rest of the game. Former United striker Danny Welbeck scored the opening goal against the run of play. Rasmus Hojlund thought he had brought the score to parity, but VAR stepped in to rule in favour of the Seagulls. Second-half goals from Pascal Gross and Joao Pedro forced a few Man United supporters to exit the stadium early. Hannibal Mejbri pulled one goal back. However, it was too late to spark a dream comeback for the Red Devils.
Man United legend Schmeichel was left perplexed by Martinez’s efforts, questioning his positioning and decision-making. ‘It is kind of what happens at Manchester United at theinute, it is very individual,’ Schmeichel told Premier League Productions. ‘Players, for instance, Martinez here, are trying to be a hero and get in and block. People know this. If we look at him there, he puts himself in a position directly in line of the goalkeeper. ‘He should be closing down rather of just stood up trying to block. If you want to block, don’t turn your body, stand tall. Clearly things aren’t right for Manchester United.’