Lisandro Martinez has moved to clarify his scathing post-match comments about Manchester United's hierarchy following the 2-0 Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid, but he stopped short of apologising for them.
The defender criticised the club's technical director in a TV interview after Tuesday night's loss, saying: "I expected more from our technical director. I have to be honest, you know? And also, as players, we have to do more, but it's also important when you make a strong squad to be ready for these kinds of nights."
He also suggested that sacking Michael Carrick was not the answer, when those above were not held accountable.
Martinez releases statement
United have insisted that Jason Wilcox, the club's director of football, will remain at the club. On Wednesday night, Martinez released a statement on Instagram to clarify his comments.
"Following everything that has been said about my comments yesterday, I want to share some thoughts on what I said and how I feel," he wrote. "After the match, I spoke out of anger and frustration at not getting the result we all wanted."
"Those who know me know how I live football, with passion, commitment and a huge desire to win. And when things don't go our way, it hurts, especially when representing a club with the history and stature of Manchester United. My words reflect how I feel and how much I want to see this club competing for the biggest honours. Those high standards are part of how I see football and the responsibility that comes with wearing this shirt."
Player takes responsibility
"When I talk about wanting more, I'm talking about the ambition we must all have as part of this club. To keep growing, to become stronger and to have everything we need to compete at the highest level. These are standards we must all hold ourselves to, starting with me."
"I know that, first and foremost, it's us, the players, who have to deliver, and I put myself at the front of that responsibility. We need to demand even more of ourselves and work together to take Manchester United back to the top."
"I believe in my teammates, our manager and everyone working to help this club move forward. I'm convinced that the way forward is to keep working together, with ambition and commitment."
"My goal has been the same since day one, to win, to compete at the highest level and to give everything I have for this badge."
The ball is now in United's court as they decide how best to handle the situation.
