Mark Hughes and Stoke City have got off a to a decent start and they would have loved to continue that but when big guns like United come calling, it will be a major task. A brace from Choupo Moting with United scoring one before the half time and after that gave the platform for Stoke to come away with a precious point. Here’s how the Potters have been rated:-
GK: Jack Butland – 8.5/10
Incredible on the night by saving everything that comes in his way. Reacted quick enough to avoid Zouma from making it an own goal. A top keeper who’s only going to improve from now on.
RWB: Mame Biram Diouf – 6/10
A usual position for Diouf but he fared well against United’s attack. Should see in the coming days as to how can manage.
CB: Kurt Zouma – 7/10
He was rock solid today and tried his best to keep Lukaku at bay. Lots of positives to take though!
CB: Cameron Goeff – 6/10
Got lucky as his mistake didn’t lead to a goal. He was tidy otherwise.
CB: Kevin Wimmer – 5/10
Looked really good on his debut and maybe a few more weeks till he cements his position for good.
LWB: Erik Pieters – 6/10
He used his physical strength a lot and fouled players but remained solid as a wingback as the game wore on.
CM: Darren Fletcher – 7/10
His passes, composure and the simplicity with which he moves around was perfect. Did tremendously well today!
CM: Joe Allen – 6/10
Not noticeable much today but he had to get into a great positive to prevent a winner from United.
RF: Xherdan Shaqiri – 7/10
He was trouble all evening down the right and ball control was magnificent but he just couldn’t help with the end product.
LF: Choupo Moting – 8/10
His drive looked dangerous and he got himself into two fabulous positions to score.
ST: Jese Rodriguez – 7/10
De Gea made a brilliant save from his effort and he should have scored there otherwise he had a mediocre match with not many chances.