Rúben Amorim promotes “exciting” Academy star after Manchester United Player Absence

Rúben Amorim has brought an “exciting” Academy talent into the first-team setup following Lisandro Martínez’s unfortunate injury at Manchester United last week.

Sunday’s 2-0 loss to Crystal Palace was already a difficult result for Amorim and his squad, but the night took a turn for the worse with a potentially serious injury to Martínez.

In the 82nd minute, the Argentine went into a 50/50 challenge with Palace winger Ismaïla Sarr but landed awkwardly, his knee bending unnaturally. Slow-motion footage highlighted the severity of the incident, causing immediate concern.

Martínez remained on the pitch for several minutes, visibly in pain and distressed, as five medical staff rushed to assist him. Eventually, he was carried off on a stretcher, with Matthijs de Ligt taking his place.

A key figure in Amorim’s defensive lineup, Martínez had started 15 of United’s last 16 matches, contributing two goals and an assist in 2025. His absence will be a significant blow to the team.

Academy talent steps up after Martínez injury

With no last-minute signing brought in to replace Martínez, many within and around the club are wondering how Amorim will adjust his defensive setup.

Luke Shaw is expected to fill in at left centre-back once he recovers from injury, while Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven, and Noussair Mazraoui are also available.

However, Amorim has now decided to integrate 17-year-old defender Dante Plunkett into first-team training.

The young talent arrived from Aston Villa in May 2024 and recently confirmed via Instagram that he had been participating in training sessions with the senior squad.

Who is Plunkett?

Plunkett is an “exciting” defensive prospect who has primarily featured for the U18s since arriving at the club.

Although naturally a left-back, his performances for Adam Lawrence’s side in his first season at United have highlighted his strong defensive attributes. With Martínez unavailable, Amorim has likely utilized him in a defensive role during training.

Beyond his defensive qualities, Plunkett has demonstrated impressive attacking instincts this season, registering two goals and two assists for the U18s across all competitions.

With United facing ongoing injury concerns at the back and missing out on reinforcements in the winter transfer window, Amorim will now have the chance to assess firsthand what the Academy can provide in the crucial final stretch of the season.