Paul Robinson has claimed Lisandro Martinez is “a different player” alongside Man United teammate Raphael Varane.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Spurs and England number pinpointed Varane’s leadership qualities and ability to read the game.
Man United have won all three of their Premier League fixtures since Varane replaced Harry Maguire in the starting XI.
As revealed by Statman Dave (1 September), the France international won 100 per cent of his tackles, 100 per cent of his ground duels and 75 per cent of his aerial duels against Leicester City on Thursday.
The centre-half is expected to start when the Red Devils take on Arsenal this Sunday (4 September).
When asked by Football Insider if Varane is the best centre-back at Old Trafford, Robinson said: “100 per cent.
“Martinez looked like a different player with Varane next to him.
“For me, Varane has to start. He is a brilliant player. He reads the game well and is a leader at the back.
“Maguire was not having a good time of it. It was a gutsy decision from the manager but one that I felt needed to be taken. Ten Hag’s decision has been proved right.
“Varane and Martinez look very accomplished.
“What has helped them is that the team has defended from the front. They have pressed well.
“That back four looks a lot more sturdy with Varane at the heart of it.”