Lisandro Martinez: This Man Utd Argentine my idol | OneFootball

Manchester United signing Lisandro Martinez admits he grew up idolising Gabriel Heinze.

Former Argentina defender Heinze played for United and Real Madrid during an outstanding career.

Asked if he was aware of the different Argentinians who have represented United over the years, Martinez said: “Yeah, especially Gabriel Heinze. He's my idol.

“It's also very important to be here, because, like you say, he was playing here. This was one of my challenges, also."

Heinze played for United from 2004 to 2007, accumulating 83 appearances. He is the only Argentinian to be named Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year, winning the award for the 2004/05 season.

A left-footed defender, Heinze draws parallels with the Reds' latest signing, and Martinez revealed the key traits that he admired about his idol.

“The tackles, the passes, the mentality," he said.