Manchester United beat Liverpool 2-1 at Anfield today – here is how their players rated.
David de Gea 6 – fairly solid throughout, especially when claiming crosses, but will be disappointed to have been beaten at his near post by Daniel Sturridge.
Antonio Valencia 7 – too strong for Alberto Moreno down United’s right hand flank and was impressive throughout in a solid display.
Chris Smalling 7 – kept Daniel Sturridge fairly quiet and was confident bringing the ball out from the back, continuing his fine recent form.
Phil Jones 6 – a few rash moments, particularly when he clattered Adam Lallana and then wiped out Jordan Henderson, but was solid enough for United.
Daley Blind 7 – went about his business quietly at left back, rarely putting a foot wrong and even surged forward to win the penalty late in the game.
Michael Carrick 7 – generally dependable in midfield, helping United keep possession at key moments in the game, helping nullify any Liverpool momentum.
Ander Herrera 8 – produced a superb pass for Mata’s opener and was effective in possession throughout, providing quick, direct passes into the frontline.
Juan Mata 9 – a well taken opener followed by a spectacular second, Mata was at the heart of United’s attacking play in a superb performance.
Ashley Young 6 – fairly quiet going forward but offered good defensive protection for Daley Blind down the left before being substituted for Angel Di Maria.
Marouane Fellaini 7 – always caused problems for Liverpool when the ball was sent in the air, and was given the license to move around and target different Liverpool centre backs in a bid to create mismatches in fine tactical deployment from Louis van Gaal.
Wayne Rooney 6 – quiet throughout and missed a late penalty in an underwhelming performance as his drought at Anfield goes on.
Substitutes
Angel Di Maria 6 – good running and energy on the counter attack but the final ball was regularly missing.
Radamel Falcao 5 – offered very little after coming on with seven minutes to play.
Marcos Rojo – only came on in added time so had absolutely no impact.
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