How did Manchester United’s players fare in their convincing 3-0 win over West Bromwich Albion today?
David de Gea 7 – West Brom offered little threat today, and the Spaniard made just three saves, but whatever he had to do, de Gea did it well.
Rafael 8 – the Brazilian almost got on the scoresheet with a back post header that forced a stunning save from Ben Foster, and Rafael continued to get forward throughout, as well as being solid defensively.
Chris Smalling 8 – Smalling started in his natural centre back position, and had a great game, showing athleticism and a reading of the game that will make many believe he is the future replacement for Rio Ferdinand.
Phil Jones 8 – Jones had a terrible start to the game as he looked slow and ponderous in possession, but grew into the game, scoring the opening goal and forming a strong defensive partnership with the aforementioned Smalling.
Patrice Evra 7 – Evra had a decent game as he got forward and defended fairly well, though Baggies winger Morgan Amalfitano gave him some trouble at times.
Michael Carrick 8 – Carrick was key in protecting the youthful centre back partnership, and kept thing ticking over – as he usually does – with calmness in possession and accurate passing.
Marouane Fellaini 9 – Another great display from Fellaini, who bossed the game in all areas of the field. He was strong but also creative in possession, and formed a strong midfield partnership with Carrick.
Adnan Januzaj 7 – the youngster came in and out of the game, but got an early knock following a strong challenge from Amalfitano, and struggled to really excel after that.
Juan Mata 8 – Mata had one of his better games in a United shirt today, with only Fellaini having more touches than the former Chelsea man. Mata was always looking to create and looked busy in attack.
Wayne Rooney 8 – Rooney capped off a good display with a fine back post header that wrapped up a win for Moyes’ men. Once again, Rooney was always looking to create and thoroughly deserved his goal.
Robin van Persie 6 – Another difficult game for the Dutchman, who was lucky to stay on the pitch following a rash challenge whilst already on a booking. Was unsurprisingly hauled off with half an hour to play.
Subs:
Danny Welbeck 7 – the rangy striker offered more than van Persie in his short time on the field, coolly slotting home the third goal having been played in on goal.
Shinji Kagawa 6 – Kagawa failed to really get into the game as he touched the ball just 19 times, but only came on with 15 minutes to play.
Nemanja Vidic – the Serbian came on with just three minutes to play and wasn’t required to do much defending with the game already sewn up.
image: © joncandy
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