Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag is adamant Lisando Martinez will return better than ever from his knee injury.
Lisandro won't be seen until April as he recovers from ligament damage.
Ten Hag said: "It is a setback of course.
"Licha was returning and you see his contribution to the team when he is playing, apart from the technical skills also the mentality.
"It is a big setback for Licha, he is very disappointed but he is a fighter.
"He will be back, stronger back and will play by the end of the season.
"As a a squad we have to replace him and we have players who can play there and will play there."
On new contract talks for Jonny Evans and Raphael Varane, he added: "We haven't made the decision yet."