The Pope’s favourite footballer revealed to be unlikely Man Utd star – and fans think it’s what makes him so good

THE POPE'S shock favourite footballer has been revealed - and he plays for the Red Devils.

But delighted Manchester United fans suggested the holy approval is why he has been in such strong form for club and country this season.

Pope Francis told his staff the player he enjoys watching the most is Lisandro Martinez ahead of Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham's visit to the Vatican.

Burnham passed on the information to United and a "humbled and thrilled" Martinez.

And in turn, the club arranged for a signed No6 shirt to be sent with Burnham to be delivered to the head of the Catholic Church.

The defender, 25, wrote: "Su Santidad, con mucho carino, LM," which translates to: "Your holiness, with much love, Licha."

And now report Martinez could make a visit to Rome to meet the Pope in person.

Both men were born and raised in Argentina, with Martinez playing a key role in the national team winning the World Cup in December.

One fan said of the United star: "No wonder he's too good a defender because he knows the Lord is watching him."

That is despite his no-nonsense, aggressive defending style that sees Martinez unafraid to clatter through opposition players, earning him the famous 'Butcher' nickname.

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Another wrote: "Pope Francis knows ball."

But one joker quipped: "Don't believe it... surely Nick Pope would be his favourite!"

However, some United supporters are praying for a miraculous healing for their top centre-back as Pope sent his best wishes for a speedy and full recovery.

Martinez fractured a metatarsal in his foot in the 2-2 draw with Sevilla this month and has been ruled out until the new season.

He underwent surgery last week and updated fans from his hospital bed.

The ex-Ajax man said: "Everything went really well, thanks to God!

"Many thanks for all of your messages. Now focusing on the recovery."