The Belgian was an effective second-half substitute for Louis van Gaal.
It’s not often Marouane Fellaini is a game-changer for Manchester United.
Against West Brom last night, however, the £27.5 million man defied the odds.
After being brought on at half-time by Louis van Gaal, Fellaini provided United with some fresh impetus and delivered a fine performance.
| Team | Pos | Goals | Chances Created | Tackles Won | Successful Final-Third Passes | Aerial Duels Won | Apps | Mins | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daley Blind | Man Utd | MF | 1 | 3 | 2 | 16 | 2 | 1 | 90 |
| Marouane Fellaini | Man Utd | MF | 1 | 2 | 1 | 6 | 4 | 1 | 45 |
| Ángel Di María | Man Utd | MF | 0 | 2 | 0 | 17 | 0 | 1 | 76 |
| Falcao | Man Utd | FW | 0 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 18 |
As Opta stats show, Fellaini created two chances and scored once after coming on in the second half, more than most Man United players over the course of 90 minutes.
The Belgian completed six final-third passes – average in that department. But where Fellaini, unsurprisingly, excelled was in the air, winning more aerial duels than any of his team-mates.
His goal involved chesting the ball down brilliantly – and the turn and finish that followed was superb.
It is, of course, too early to suggest Fellaini is back to his best. But the 26-year-old delivered an encouraging display after replacing Ander Herrera. There may be life in his Old Trafford career yet.
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