6 hours Ago By [email protected] (Ross Jackson)
For a little while it looked like Manchester United were on course for a fourth defeat in their opening eight Premier League games, but a second-half comeback saw Erik ten Hag's side notch their first win in over a month. United are up to 11th in the table and are just six points off the Champions League places. It's hoped the win can mark a turning point in United's season and fans have been commenting on the Manchester Evening News' player ratings from the game with their thoughts.
Some have pointed out how the performance proves the dressing room is still behind Ten Hag, though others are worried one summer signing isn't going to make the grade at Old Trafford. Here's a look at some of the comments: READ MORE: Player ratings vs Brentford as Garnacho and Hojlund good READ MORE: United defend reaction to Matthijs de Ligt head injury FreddiePayne: An ok first half, not great but decent enough, apart from the extra time defending for their goal. That was poor.
Second half much improved and well deserved win over all. Garnacho probably our best player, however Rashford put in his best shift for a long time and was really close to Garnacho’s performance. Defensively we were good, especially in the second half.
De Ligt was good as were Evans and Dalot. Martinez quietly had a good game too, his performance was under the radar, but impressive. Midfield is still a problem IMO, but maybe if Ten Hag would trust Ugarte more (and he’s fully fit) then we will see an improvement.
I assume he was benched due to getting a knock midweek. Hojlund and Zirkzee. For me Zirkzee holds up the ball better and brings others into the game, but he’s doesn’t look like a genuine striker, more of a playmaker.
It would be interesting to see him play as a 10 rather than a striker. Perhaps with Bruno out for Fenerbahce, it might be an opportunity, and have Hojlund up front. Couldn’t hurt.
Anyhow, 3 points is great. Daves: Erikson is playing well & had a hand in both goals. It makes such a difference when he's on song, because he's a delightful footballer who sees openings that other players can't see.
Panchopearson: A real improvement in the second half. I thought the front three were much better and although Rashford didn't score, I think that was one of his best performances for a long time. Really good cross for the first goal.
De Ligt and Evans both played well together. On Thursday with Bruno suspended, I would like to see Amad play in the number 10 role. Frankiest: Getting more concerned over Zirkzee.
Hopefully he will come good but he looks way off it TT84: One positive I am taking from this is that the players must still be behind the manager. It would have been really easy to throw him under the bus today. When it matters they can get a win (today, man city), but for some reason they cant do it week in, week out - very odd.
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