Amorim says Man Utd's win over Newcastle proved key point in debate over Lisandro Martinez

Ruben Amorim says that Lisandro Martinez proved he could play against "tall players" in Manchester United's win over Newcastle.

While Martinez's commitment has never been in doubt, many critics have claimed that he is not tall enough to be a centre-half in the Premier League where there is a need to be good in the air.

But back in the starting lineup after a long injury layoff, Martinez was not only commanding in the way he led the players around him, but he also was strong in blocking out a Newcastle team with tall players.

His presence was particularly important at the back with United missing Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt again through injury. And he was the perfect figure with his experience to play alongside Ayden Heaven and bring the best out of the youngster.

"I think he is a guy with a lot of character, he is very good on the ball and with the character he has - he played in the World Cup, he won the World Cup, he is used to that stress and he showed that he is a top player," said Amorim.

"Sometimes people talk about the way he defends the box because he is a small guy but he did very well against a team which just has tall players."

While after the game he wrote on Instagram: "Boxing Day win at Old Trafford. What a special night! Big thanks to our amazing supporters. This is United."

Former United keeper Edwin van der Saar commented: "Grande Capitano", meaning great captain in Spanish while Matheus Cunha said: "Crazy good player."

United got a much needed win at home to Newcastle where they also managed a clean sheet. They were put under a lot of pressure in the second half but notably the presence of Martinez played a part as the backline remained composed.