Historically, Liverpool and Manchester United is the heavyweight fixture in English football. Regardless of both teams’ stature and form at the time.
But on Sunday at Anfield, the duo played out a snorefest of the highest order, although, Erik ten Hag and Manchester United will be pleased with their point because of how things have been going for them this season.
Another man who would be delighted with his efforts is Andre Onana because that was a much-needed clean sheet for the club’s under-fire summer capture.
Paul Scholes noted how he has been ‘very, very inconsistent’ this season, but showcased ‘confidence’ against Liverpool, as he told Premier League Productions (17/12/23 at 5:25 pm).
One moment that Paul Scholes loved was Andre Onana ‘smirking’ at the Kop End when he was walking off at the half-time break.
Liverpool kicked off towards their main stand during the first period and they were unable to get the fans in full voice.
The lack of atmosphere was highlighted by Gary Neville during the game, with Andre Onana standing tall and still trying to play out from the back despite the pressure on him.
Andre Onana against Liverpool
“That’s what Onana has been like, he has been inconsistent, much like the team really,” said Scholes. “Very, very inconsistent.
“What he has been brought to the club for is to play out from the back – he still has that confidence to try it (against Liverpool).
“I even saw him going off and smiling at the Kop End in the first half. There he is, a little smirk, so he knows he can improve.”
Andre Onana will come good
It’s pretty clear to see that Onana does back his talents and that’s very important in the pressured role he plays at Manchester United.
But he also has to accept that if it weren’t for his errors, then his team would still be in Europe.
Whenever Onana messes up, people are quick to mention David de Gea, and understandably so.
But when the Spaniard first joined Man United, he too went through a sticky period before proving his worth again and again.
Give Onana time and he will stand tall under ten Hag because, as he proved with Inter last season, he has the quality in his locker.
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