Manchester United got back to winning ways on Saturday evening as they secured a comfortable 4-1 victory over Rafael Benitez’s Newcastle United. Dwight Gayle opened the scoring for the Magpies, who looked lively in the early part of the game. However, United grew in confidence as the match went on and goals from Anthony Martial, Chris Smalling, Paul Pogba and Romelu Lukaku sealed a convincing victory.
Here are our player ratings for the game…..
David de Gea: The Spain international made a couple of key blocks early on in the match, but he was left high and dry for the opening goal which came after a slip from Victor Lindelof – 7/10
Antonio Valencia: Skipper on the day. Valencia controlled the game on the right side of the defence and occasionally pushed forward to join his teammates in the attack – 7/10
Ashley Young: The veteran continued his fine form this campaign with a precise assist for Chris Smalling’s goal. Young has made a mini-revival to his career which many would never have expected – 8/10
Chris Smalling: Was not doubt the better centre-back on the day. The Englishman had the extra impetus to prove himself with both Phil Jones and Eric Bailly injured and he delivered with a key headed goal – 8/10
Victor Lindelof: Another jittery performance from the Swede. Lindelof slipper just prior to Newcastle’s goal which happens to be the first league goal, United have conceded at Old Trafford this season – 6/10
Nemanja Matic: The perfect midfield partner for Paul Pogba. Matic held his shape and position at the centre of the park as his companion linked up with his teammates further forward – 7.5/10
Paul Pogba: The Frenchman marked his return from an injury layoff with a goal and assist. Pogba’s influence was visible from the moment he stepped onto the pitch as provided the additional impetus in the attack – 9/10
Anthony Martial: Martial was played along with Rashford for the first time in the top-flight, and the attacker delivered by equalising via a delightful Pogba cross. He now has five goals for the league campaign – 8/10
Marcus Rashford: Was a constant threat on the right wing, and eventually provided an assist for Pogba’s tap-in during the second half. The Englishman continues to build his glowing reputation – 7.5/10
Juan Mata: A surprise starter ahead of Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Mata had a solid game in the number 10 position, and provided the assist for Lukaku who ended his seven-match goalless run – 7.5/10
Romelu Lukaku: The pressure had upped on Lukaku upon Zlatan’s comeback but he managed to make the most of Mata’s through ball to launch a thunderous strike past Rob Elliot. Hopefully, he can now build on and score goals on regular intervals. – 7/10
Substitutes:
Marouane Fellaini
Ander Herrera
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Image – Getty
