Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel has launched a scathing attack on Lisandro Martinez following the defender’s performance in the club’s 2-0 defeat to Chelsea on Saturday, describing his display as “disgraceful”.

The Red Devils endured a difficult afternoon after both sides went into the break without a goal, but Martinez came under heavy criticism for his role in Chelsea’s opener.

Morgan Rogers took advantage of poor defending from the Argentine centre-back in the 50th minute to break the deadlock and give the Blues the lead.

Manchester United’s situation deteriorated further in the 64th minute when Cole Palmer converted a penalty to make it 2-0. Martinez had been sent off shortly before the goal after striking Wesley Fofana with his forearm inside the penalty area.

The defeat has added to the pressure on United manager Michael Carrick, with his side now having gone nine matches without a win.

Schmeichel, however, believes Martinez was chiefly responsible for the disappointing result and did not hold back in his assessment of the defender.

Speaking after the game, the former United goalkeeper said:

“I place this entirely on Lisandro Martinez’s shoulders.

“This is an absolute disgrace how he performed in this game. Two weeks ago, he made some very strong statements against his teammates and the football club, and it seemed like he was attempting to orchestrate a transfer. He’s in the final year of his contract.

“What he exhibited today, honestly, leaves me speechless. For the first goal, he has played in a World Cup final; you cannot defend the way he did for the first goal and the penalty. I literally have no words for how outrageous that was.”

The former Denmark international also questioned Martinez’s reaction after being shown a red card, criticising the defender for shaking his head as he made his way off the pitch.

“Then he walks off the pitch shaking his head as if he’s done nothing wrong. So poor,” he added.

Schmeichel further faulted Martinez for allowing Rogers too much space during the build-up to Chelsea’s opening goal, insisting that the defender’s approach contributed significantly to United’s defeat.