Jose Mourinho has talked quite a lot about securing the second place for his side after accepting that the title would never be his this season and Manchester United, ahead of their trip to the London stadium, needed a draw to secure that second place. With the FA Cup final looming large, Jose fielded an interesting United team with a 3-5-2 formation and the team got the draw they needed with David De Gea keeping the clean-sheet that ensures he has the golden glove for himself.
Here’s how the Manchester United players are rated after a mediocre draw against West Ham United.
David De Gea – 7/10
Hardly bothered at all and the clean-sheet would be a big relief for him.
Antonio Valencia – 7/10
Held his own on the right-flank and kept Masuaku in check. He provided some intriguing runs but that’s about it. His cross for Paul Pogba did deserve the award of an assist though.
Victor Lindelof – 6.5/10
Alert and composed. Did his job whenever he was required to do it.
Chris Smalling – 6/10
Looked a bit rusty tonight. He was comfortable with the physical aspect of the game but he did indeed struggle to catch up with Arnautovic when it came to speed and quick movement.
Phil Jones – 7/10
Stood out amongst the three and put his heart into the challenges several times and won them as well. If only Jones kept his fitness, he’d be a really assertive centre-half for the club.
Luke Shaw – 7/10
Showed what he can really add to the United team which Young won’t. His runs down the left were laced with intent and he provided an extra dimension to the attack. He was also denied excellently by Adrian’s foot in the first half.
Ander Herrera – 6/10
Decent and alert to things. Passed the ball along on occasions and intervened at times but it was average.
Scott McTominay – 7/10
His defensive work was superb and that double challenge on Masuaku does deserve some applause. He can be an asset for the future.
Paul Pogba – 6/10
There’s an abundance of talent in the lad but somehow it never reaches its top level. Looked mediocre tonight.
Alexis Sanchez – 8.5/10
He did not get a goal or an assist but he deserves this high rating simply for his incredible work-rate, some really tricky footwork and the positive drive he brings to this United team. Nothing short of world class!
Jesse Lingard – 7.5/10
Smooth and focused and was denied by Adrian three times today. He’s another one who’s growing really well into this United team and in Jose’s plans.
Substitutes
Marcus Rashford – N/A
Ashley Young – N/A
Eric Bailly – N/A
