Manchester United went into the international break in the worst way possible. They suffered a devastating loss against Chelsea and there were dark clouds over the injury list. They returned with beaming optimism after the break. Newcastle United visited Old Trafford knowing that Pogba, Ibrahimovic and Rojo were fit and back.
United started on a high but a goal from Dwight Gayle put them on the back foot. The home side kept their focus and responded brilliantly and never went on the defensive again. Goals from Anthony Martial, Chris Smalling, Paul Pogba and Romelu Lukaku swept aside the Toons. Here’s how the red devils have been rated:-
GK: David De Gea – 7/10
His defence let him down for Newcastle’s goal but after that, he didn’t look like he could concede again. Had to be on the alert to save the shots of Shelvey and he made a crucial stop before halftime as well. What would United do without him?
RB: Antonio Valencia – 7.5/10
He controlled the right region superbly and was an outlet for United all game.
CB: Victor Lindelof – 6/10
Slipped at a bad moment and Gayle scored due to that but the Swede picked himself and improved well during the game. Positives in plenty and he should improve from here.
CB: Chris Smalling – 7/10
Gambled and got a significant goal with a supreme header before halftime. He made a few notable tackles and held his own.
LB: Ashley Young – 7/10
Delivered a magnificent ball for Smalling’s goal and fought nicely on the left. He surely has cemented his place for United.
CM: Nemanja Matic – 8/10
He effortlessly controlled the midfield and Shelvey or Hayden couldn’t even take him off the ball. He is one of the best signings the club has made.
CM: Paul Pogba – 9/10
The victory today is because of him surely. It’s fascinating as to how much difference his arrival makes. His ball was perfect for Martial to get the equaliser and he got a goal for himself too as he pounced upon Rashford’s lay-off. Man of the match without a doubt.
LM: Anthony Martial – 8/10
Combined well with other forwards and did his best to grab the opener.
RM: Juan Mata: 7.5/10
Kept the ball ticking and opened up a few passing lanes with accuracy.
CAM: Marcus Rashford: 7.5/10
He was on the prowl throughout and his partnership with Martial and Lukaku looked appealing. His assist to Pogba was delightful as well.
ST: Romelu Lukaku – 7/10
Did his best to involve himself and made some very good passes and movements. He kept his composure to finish fiercely for United’s fourth.
Substitutes:-
CM: Marouane Fellaini – 6/10
Went around trying to retrieve the ball again and was very decent. It will be interesting as to how he will fare in the coming matches.
FW: Zlatan Ibrahimovic – 6.5/10
Involved himself from the moment he came on the pitch and tried to pass the ball along. His kick after leaping into the air was powerful and needed a save. It surely was good to see him back.
CM: Ander Herrera – N/A
Came very late and can’t be rated.
