Inter striker Lautaro Martinez has carried the burden of the attack in the absence of Romelu Lukaku, even when going through a lengthy period without scoring.
As highlighted in today’s newspaper edition of Corriere dello Sport, the Argentina international went two months without a goal after Lukaku picked up an injury in August, but has featured far more prominently than in other seasons so far.
Indeed, Martinez has played the full 90 minutes in eight of his 12 starts this term, compared to only five times last season from 41 appearances.
Only centre-back Milan Skriniar has been utilised for more minutes this season than Martinez, in comparison to last year in which he was the tenth most used player.
Whilst he endured eight games without a goal until netting against Barcelona and Salernitana, Martinez’s contribution to the team has improved significantly and his barren spell has brought less criticism than previously.
The former Racing Club striker has been able to provide assists, such as for Robin Gosens against Barcelona, or be a driving presence in attack to stretch opponents and help Inter build.