United Players Rated from the 1-0 Win over Tottenham

Here’s how the Manchester United players fared in the 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League:

De Gea- 6

Had a shaky moment as he collided with Jones and dropped the ball, giving Aurier a serious chance. However, he wasn’t really tested too much and made a couple of routine saves from tame efforts from distance.

Bailly- 6

Poor passing in the opening few minutes but grew better as the match went on. Unsurprising since it was his first game after his return from injury.

Smalling- 6.5

Was solid in defence and made many headed clearances which thwarted Tottenham time and again. Had a couple of nervy moments but fortunately those came to nothing.

Jones- 6.5

Superb in defence and made a couple of crucial interceptions and tackles. Could’ve gifted Spurs a goal in the first half, though. Had a good game overall, and his return has provided relief to many United fans.

Valencia- 7

Was United’s most impressive player for majority of the match. Was flawless in defence and brilliant in attack. Completed a beautiful cross for Martial’s failed bicycle kick.

Young- 7

Fifth consecutive league start shows how quickly he’s cemented his place in the starting line-up. Was superb on the left and shackled Serge Aurier. Skillful dribbling was surprisingly good at times and he even made two well-timed tackles in the first half. Unfortunately not much came off from his crosses.

Matic- 6

Protected his defence well and distributed the ball well. Could’ve done more to help his side maintain more possession as his midfield was usually run over by Spurs’ midfielders.

Herrera- 6

Was full of energy, as usual, and pushed his team for a goal till the very end. Didn’t have any notable chance or incident, though.

Mkhitaryan- 5

Was dropped after recent sub-par displays but made a return to the starting line-up. Had a decent game as not much came off for him and he regularly lost possession. Subbed off after the hour mark.

Rashford- 5

Was ambitious but his composure undid his efforts. Did well to find spaces between the lines but couldn’t link up well with Lukaku and struggled against three top defenders.

Lukaku- 6.5

Was quiet for majority of the game as he was isolated and couldn’t do much to help his side. Had a couple of notable moments after that- his header hitting the post and then his header serving as the assist for Martial’s winner.

SUBSTITUTES

Lingard- 5.5

Was played in an unusual position but he was still very lively. Completed a superb cross for Lukaku, which came off the post, but spurned a late one-on-one chance as he ballooned his effort.

Martial- 7

Started on the bench due to recent performances, but was the match winner here. Scored a well-taken goal, which Mourinho surprisingly didn’t find good. Needs to be a bit more consistent and he’ll cement a first team position in no time.

Darmian- NA

Was a time wasting substitute.

Subs Not Used- Romero, Blind, McTominay, Mata.