Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini impressed despite loss to City.
Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini produced an individually solid display as the Red Devils lost at The Etihad.
United played the entire second half with 10 men thanks to Chris Smalling’s red card, with Fellaini continuing to defy his doubters by growing into Louis van Gaal’s side.
The Belgian made five successful tackles, more than he has done in any game this season, while completing 90 per cent of his passes. Angel di Maria for contrast, completed 63 per cent.
| Match | Won Tackles | Interceptions | Passing Accuracy | Aerial Duels | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marouane Fellaini | Man City vs Man Utd | 5 | 1 | 90% | 3 |
| Marouane Fellaini | Man Utd vs Chelsea | 3 | 1 | 83% | 3 |
| Marouane Fellaini | West Brom vs Man Utd | 2 | 1 | 83% | 4 |
| Marouane Fellaini | Man Utd vs Swansea | 1 | 2 | 82% | 6 |
As United pushed to try and find an improbable late equaliser, Fellaini was tidy in keeping possession and unlike last season, looked assured playing for the club.
The difference compared to his game last season at the Etihad is clear to see. While his passing was neat, he failed to win a single tackle in the heavy defeat.
| Match | Won Tackles | Interceptions | Passing Accuracy | Aerial Duels | Mins Played | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marouane Fellaini | Man Utd vs Man City 2013/14 | 0 | 1 | 89% | 3 | 66 |
The result obviously went against United again, but had Wayne Rooney or Robin van Persie converted late chances, but it was Fellaini’s efforts in midfield which helped keep them at least in with a shout until the end.
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