Manchester United got back to winning ways by defeating Swansea City 3-1 at The Liberty Stadium. They took advantage of a struggling Swans and put them under immense pressure right from the off. The pressure paid off as United opened the scoring with a stunning controlled volley from Paul Pogba. Ibrahimovic added 2 goals in the first half and this left the Red Devils in a position of some comfort.
The win was much needed for a United side that had gone 4 games without a win. Their stars showed up on the night and everyone including Mourinho is bound to be a bit relieved after some results.
Here are the Manchester United player ratings for the game –
Formation – 4-2-3-1
David De Gea– 6
A comfortable night for the Spanish keeper as he didn’t have much to do. Got a hand onto Van Der Hoorn’s header but failed to keep out the hosts’ only consolation goal. Will be relieved to have an off-day after a couple of performances where he was tested immensely.
Ashley Young–6.5
Was a dependable presence at right back, an unusual role for him although he has been deployed there in the past by Louis van Gaal. Looked comfortable on the ball and got forward for United’s attacking forays into Swansea’s area.
Phil Jones- 6.5
The manager will be impressed with the former Blackburn man after his return from injury. Although the opponents weren’t the strongest, Jones put on a good show which will hold in good stead for matters relating to selection.
Marcus Rojo– 6
Gave the ball away a little too often for United’s liking. Apart from this, did well to smother out the advances of Llorente and Baston.
Matteo Darmian- 6.5
Playing at left back isn’t new for him as he used to line up there for Torino in the Serie A. Put in a decent performance. Was an ever willing runner and got forward to good effect.
Michael Carrick – 7
It was important for him to be on his game today on his return to the team. Did well. His presence in midfield is that of an assuring one. Pogba could be seen getting in more advanced regions and this is because of the protection that Carrick provides.
Marouane Fellaini– 6.5
These are the kind of games are tailor-made for the big Belgian. He was an aggressive physical presence in midfield that tackled Swansea’s midfielders well. His breaking up of play was excellent.
Juan Mata– 6.5
The Spaniard was neat and tidy in possession and in terms of passing. Took the back seat and let his teammates dominate. Was close to adding a fourth for United.
Paul Pogba- 7.5
Carrick’s presence was letting Pogba have more of a say in the game and he was seen getting forward a lot. Scored a brilliant volley to open the scoring but was relatively quiet afterwards.
Wayne Rooney – 7.5
An encouraging performance from the sidelined striker. Did well to combine with fellow attackers. Unlucky to not score but put in a shift that will encourage his players and manager alike.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic–8
The Swede was up against a weak defence and it showed. Took his two goals really well and ended a goal drought that lasted over 6 games. Will be happy to get back his scoring touch.
Substitutes –
Jesse Lingard–N/A (Mata 81)
Came on too late to have an impact.
Morgan Schneiderlin– N/A (Rooney 89)
Was brought on to run the clock down.
Fosu-Mensah– N/A ( Phil Jones 94)
Another short outing for the Dutch youngster
Subs unused –Romero, Blind, Rashford, Martial
Comments are closed.