Manchester United player ratings v Manchester City: De Gea and Fellaini solid

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Several Manchester United players can hold their heads up after a harsh defeat at Manchester City.

Manchester United battled hard but weren’t able to prevent a defeat as they play the majority of the Manchester derby with ten men.

Michael Oliver’s decision to send off Chris Smalling saw United’s control over the game vanish as a goal from Sergio Aguero was the decisive factor, securing three points for the home side at the Etihad.

Here are our player ratings for the United team.

De Gea – 7

So many times David De Gea ends up on the losing side having made several world class saves during a match. Today was just that.

Valencia – 6

Valencia always works hard but he struggled to draw in his attacking instincts when he needed to, which left space in behind.

Smalling – 5

No idea what he was thinking about for his second yellow card. His dismissal changed the flow and shape of the game.

Rojo – 6

Another player who worked hard in defence before he was carried off injured. Seems to be getting better in the centre back role.

Shaw – 6

A little naïve at time rushing into decisions, which left Rojo having to move over and cover.

Blind – 6

Not a pretty player to watch but he works hard and never stopped trying to be a disruptive influence against City’s attack.

Januzaj – 5

Looked up for it but it’s harsh to judge him because he was the player sacrificed following Smalling’s sending off.

Fellaini – 7

Has someone given Kevin Strootman a wig? Fellaini was one of the best players on the pitch for United. He was everywhere and worked his socks off trying to get United back into the game.

Rooney – 6

Huffed and puffed but wasn’t able to make the difference missing a great chance to get United level.

Di Maria – 7

Whenever he gets on the ball he looks like making something happen. City were clever to double up on him when United were down to ten.

Van Persie – 6

Became very isolated when United were down to ten men. He’ll have better games and was unlucky not to get better chances.

Subs

Carrick – 6

Solid considering he was thrown on to play in the middle of the back four against one of the best attacks in the league.

McNair – 5

Did a decent job. Had he shown a little more eagerness to get on the end of a Di Maria ball, it would have taken a miracle for him not to score.

Wilson – N/A

Wilson looked lively and did the City defence for pace late on as he went in behind. He may well have taken a shot had Vincent Kompany not produced a great challenge.