Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has defended his incendiary outburst and offered an explanation but stopped short of an apology. The Argentinian says that he wants to help lead United back to the summit of English and European football with their current plight leaving him 'hurt'.
Martinez explains his comments
Following the 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid, Martinez released a public statement addressing his post-match interview.
He said: “Following everything that has been said about my comments yesterday, I want to share some thoughts on what I said and how I feel.
“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.
High standards and responsibility
Martinez insisted his words reflect his feelings and his desire to see the club competing for major honours.
“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.
“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.
Players must deliver
The defender acknowledged that the players must take responsibility for the club's performances.
“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.”
