Manchester United announced their return to Champions League in an emphatic style after thumping Club Brugge 4-0 on Wednesday night. The star of the night was their captain Wayne Rooney who has been under a lot of criticism recently due to a 10 match goal drought but his all-round play on Wednesday evening was a timely reminder of just how good he can be.
United won 7-1 on aggregate, and the skipper spearheaded the assault with a hat-trick. The only negative of the night was a late penalty miss by Javier Hernandez.
Sergio Romero 6
Had very little to do in the match as it was his side that were dictating the play but had to sharp when called into action. Made a couple very decent saves especially one on one against Diaby.
Matteo Darmian 7
once again a solid match for him is proving to United’s mister consistent in this early phase of the campaign. Got forward well, closed down all attacking threats down his flank but did make one or two mistakes which could have cost United.
Chris Smalling 7
Another assured performance by the centre back is in the form of his life. Another clean sheet for him and led by example in defense. Never really threatened.
Daley Blind 6
Was crucial to United retaining possession for long durations of the match. Looks to be forming a solid partnership with Smalling at the back. The only cause for concern is that he was beaten in the air once or twice.
Luke Shaw 7
Continued his excellent form. showing impressive acceleration to get back when Brugge broke against his team and made a vital block when United led by a single goal. Got forward whenever an opportunity came up, needs to maintain this form.
Ander Herrera 7
Began the game poorly with a couple of badly misplaced passes and rash tackles. when the formation shifted and he became the No. 10, he was a different player. In 20 minutes after the break, he created one goal and scored another.
Michael Carrick 6
Made a sloppy start to the match but recovered soon enough to his solid best. Dominated the second half with ease and anchored his midfield with his usual diligence and awareness.
Juan Mata 7
tried hard to make something happen, was a livewire throughout the game. His quick and subtle passing did not find the outlets they deserved in the first half but was excellent in combining with Herrera.
Adnan Januzaj 6
Poor first touch and offered little in the way of support to Rooney, playing in front of him. Ineffective and when he made way at half-time it was no surprise.
Memphis Depay 8
Assisted Rooney for the opener with excellent run and pass. Continues to show that he is much more than a goal scorer. Was integral to United’s second with a fine through-ball to Herrera, and outclassed the opposition with his trickery throughout.
Wayne Rooney 9
The star of the night silenced his critics with a superb hat-trick and could have had more. He looked in his rhythm from the off, with his touch and link-up play notably improved. Though Brugge are not the toughest opponents but he played like a ruthless striker, hungry for goals.