When Michael Carrick first took over at Manchester United from Ruben Amorim in January, both results and performances (largely) were very good and a huge improvement on what had come before. 

Yet, in the past few weeks, both results and, in particular, performances have started to decline. There have been plenty of inquiries into what those reasons are. 

One factor suggested by several people is the absence of Lisandro Martinez. Not only is he a very good defender, but his quality on the ball is crucial for the team when building up and beating the opposing team's press. 

The Argentine defender has not featured for Carrick's side since the 1-1 draw against West Ham United, all the way back on the 10th of February. 

Ahead of the next game against Everton, the gaffer said he had felt something in training, which turned out to be a calf strain. At the time, it didn't sound too bad, but the 27-year-old is yet to return, and will miss the visit of Aston Villa on Sunday afternoon. 

However, a more positive update has been issued. Indeed, as Chris Wheeler reports, Martinez is "expected to return" to the squad for the away game against AFC Bournemouth next week. 

It's important to note that he says "squad," not "team," but a very encouraging update in any case. Considering the trip to the South Coast comes around as quickly as Friday, perhaps it suggests that he was close to making the squad against Villa. 

With an international break following the trip to Bournemouth, there is no need to rush Martinez for that game. It feels unlikely that he will be called up to the Argentina squad for the March break, considering his injury, but we will see. Plus, due to tensions in the Middle East, their only scheduled fixture - the Finalissima against Spain - is currently in serious doubt about taking place. 

All being well, he will be available and ready to start for the team after the international break, as United lock in to try and secure a UEFA Champions League place for next season. 

Before the injury, Martinez and Harry Maguire had struck up a really nice partnership at the heart of the United defence. That continuity and consistency will be important for reaching the end goal this season, you would feel. Let's hope the report is accurate and that we can see him return as soon as possible. 

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