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Ratings: Mason Greenwood shows his ability to sink Inter Milan with his second goal this pre-season

20 July 2019 by

Manchester United beat Inter Milan 1-0 in a match that United dominated from the very start. It was goalless at half time and United took their time to break down the Italian side with Mason Greenwood scoring the opening goal in the 76th minute of the match. Inter are a bit behind United in terms of fitness as this is just their second pre-season match.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be pleased with pre-season so far. Beating Perth Glory 2-0, Leeds United 4-0 and Inter Milan 1-0. United have scored seven goals, conceding none. On Thursday, Tottenham Hotspur will be the opposition in Shanghai, China. After that, United will be heading back to Europe for a friendly against Kristiansund before the final International Champions Cup match against AC Milan in Cardiff, Wales.

Man of the Match: Aaron Wan-Bissaka

The 21-year-old arrived at United this summer from Crystal Palace. He has put in a number of good performances so far this pre-season. He has shown why Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has signed him. He has the ability to defend, the pace to attack and does both brilliantly so far. This season could see yet another contender for the Player of the Year award.

Manchester United

1 David De Gea

The Spanish number one made his first appearance in pre-season and despite the level of the opposition rising, he had little to do in just over 60 minutes on the pitch.

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29 Aaron Wan-Bissaka

My MOTM. Whether in defence or attack, he puts 100% into what he is doing. To sign him for £45 million is a bargain in this day and age. A true right-back with the ability to break forward and attack or support an attack. He is going to be a great player for United.

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38 Axel Tuanzebe

The English defender did well in this match and will have inpressed the manager. He seems to be on the ball with most things and is developing in the right direction. He needs to be given an opportunity this season, or he could well be lost by the club, which would be a massive mistake.

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2 Victor Lindelof

The Swedish defender played almost an hour against the Italian side and was pretty solid in defence, despite Inter not really throwing at United. A slight injury forced him off with Phil Jones replacing him.

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23 Luke Shaw

The left-back put in a good performance after recovering from a small injury. Used the left flank to aid in attack and nearly got an assist after placing a good ball into Rashford in the first half of the match.

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31 Nemanja Matic

I think the Serbian's best days are behind him now. Too slow for this team. Against opposition in form, he will be a liability.

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6 Paul Pogba

Played well against Inter and seemed to get stuck in. It was like he did not need that new challenge after all. Perhaps with the right player alongside him in midfield, it could be the missing piece for United. He will enjoy playing attacking football, something United seem capable of now.

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21 Daniel James

His pace is top notch. He gets stuck into the game and beating his man. However, in front of goal, he need to do a lot better. It is something that will come to him though. His pace will frighten Premier League defenders though.

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14 Jesse Lingard

The attacking midfielder put the effort in, something he does time and time again. Really pressed Inter in the first half. When he's in form. he's a great player to have in the team. His energy is second to none.

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9 Anthony Martial

The Frenchman started up front with Rashford playing on the wing. He seemed lost in the position, despite playing well in the same position four years ago. He played too deep at times, which is something he needs to change if he plays in this position regularly this season.

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10 Marcus Rashford

The England forward put a lot of pressure on Inter's defence. He worked hard during the game and was unlucky not to find a goal in the first half of the match.

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Substitutes

22 Sergio Romero

Replaced De Gea 62'. The Argentinian had little to do in his spell of the game, just like De Gea before him. Inter just did not cause any problems for United's defence.

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18 Ashley Young

Replaced Wan-Bissaka 63'. The veteran did well with the ball at times but in defence, he is more of a worry than a save player to have in the squad. His experience could help during the season but he should only be used in rotation and if injury calls.

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3 Eric Bailly

Replaced Tuanzebe 63'. Cool, calm and composed on the ball. United could have some options in defence this season if all of them keep their early form and carry it into the season proper.

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4 Phil Jones

Replaced Lindelof 57'. Jones looked good when he came on and at times, used his pace to beat Inter on the attack and make the clearance. Could this be the season he actually proves his place in the squad?

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Diogo Dalot

Replaced Shaw 62'. Much like Wan-Bissaka, Dalot aimed to get forward most of the time. Having both of these players in contention for the right-back position is going to be good for United, who have not had this much choice for years.

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39 Scott McTominay

Replaced Matic 63'. He did his bit in the game quietly, doing what he needed to do. He is an underrated player and will have his day.

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17 Fred

Replaced Rashford 63'. This is the season which could well define Fred. He has been largely written off after his debut season, but so was Lindelof. He wants to shine for his club, maybe he will, soon.

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Andreas Pereira

Replaced Pogba 62'. Put his energy into the game and kept things heading in United's favour. This season will be a big test for him.

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8 Juan Mata

Replaced Lingard 63'. He has the footballing brain that United needs in the squad, however, his pace is not there and physically, he's a passenger in matches where United will press high. He could still play a part this season though.

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Tahith Chong

Replaced James 63'. The young Dutch winger put Inter through their paces pressing the defence, receiving some nasty fouls, one of which forced him off in stoppage time.

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11 Mason Greenwood

Replaced Martial 63'. 17 and has scored two goals in the last two matches. Nothing seems too hard for him to achieve. He's hot shy in coming forward and does not let anything faze him. Solskjaer will give him a lot of time this season as he's ready.

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28 Angel Gomes

Replaced Chong 90+2'. Came on at the death to replace Chong. Did not have enough time to get involved in the game.

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Goals: Mason Greenwood 76′

Manchester United: De Gea (Romero 62′); Wan-Bissaka (Young 63′), Tuanzebe (Bailly 63′), Lindelof (Jones 57′), Shaw (Dalot 62′); Matic (McTominay 63′), Pogba (A. Pereira 62′); James (Chong 63′ (Gomes 90+2), Lingard (Mata 63′), Martial (Greenwood 63′); Rashford (Fred 63′)

Substitutes Not Used: J. Pereira; Smalling, Rojo, Darmian; Garner

Bookings: Andreas Pereira 90′; Marcelo Brozovic 27′, Antonio Candreva 71′, Milan Skriniar 87′

Filed Under: Feature, First Team, Managers, Match Reports, Opinion, Player Ratings Tagged With: , , , , ,

Confirmed Starting XI: De Gea, Tuanzebe, Matic, Martial and Rashford start against Inter Milan in Singapore

20 July 2019 by

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Manchester United will take on Antonio Conte’s Inter Milan in the first International Champions Cup match of the summer pre-season tour. This match will be played at the Singapore National Stadium, the penultimate match in Asia before United return to Europe for their last two matches of pre-season.

After this match, United will head to Shanghai, China where they will face Tottenham Hotspur on Thursday 25 July 2019 at the Hongkou Stadium in the city. Following that, United will return to Manchester, where they will then head to Oslo, Norway, where they will take on Solskjaer’s former club, Kristiansund before heading to Cardiff, where they will face AC Milan in the third and final International Champions Cup match.

Manchester United:

De Gea;

Wan-Bissaka, Tuanzebe, Lindelof, Shaw;

Matic, Pogba;

James, Lingard, Martial;

Rashford

Substitutes:

Romero, J. Pereira; Bailly, Jones, Smalling, Rojo, Young, Dalot, Darmian; Mata, A. Pereira, Fred, Gomes, Garner, McTominay; Greenwood, Chong

Inter Milan:

Handanovic;

D’Ambrosio, De Vrij, Skriniar;

Candreva, Gagliardini, Brozovic, Sensi, Dalbert;

Esposito, Longo

Substitutes:

Padelli, Berni, Ranocchia, Joao Mario, Borja Valero, Barella, Perisic, Colidio, Agoumé, Bastoni, Ntube, Pirola, Vergani

United and Inter have played four competitive matches in the history of both clubs; the first two were played more than 20 years ago, the other two played more than a decade ago – all in the UEFA Champions League. United won twice and drew twice, heading into the next round of the competition each time, even reaching the final in each year; 1999 and 2009, however, United were defeated by Barcelona in 2009, winning the Champions League in 1999 after beating Bayern Munich in added time.

Filed Under: Feature, First Team, Managers, News, Opinion, Starting XI Tagged With: , , , , ,

How Manchester United could look against Inter Milan in the International Champions Cup in Singapore

19 July 2019 by

Manchester United will take on Inter Milan in the International Champions Cup at the Singapore National Stadium on Saturday 20 July 2019, KO 12:30 BST. The match will be the first in the International Champions Cup this summer and the penultimate match in Asia. United have beaten both Perth Glory (2-0) and Leeds United (4-0) in Australia.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will go head to head with Antonio Conte in this match in a bid to test his squad ahead of the new Premier League season. Whilst winning the first two matches may have been impressive with the squad scoring six goals in total, conceding none, the players were hardly tested which is something the Italian team could do.

United will play three more pre-season matches after this one; Tottenham Hotspur in the International Champions Cup at the Hongkou Stadium in Shanghai on Thursday 25 July 2019, KO 12:30 BST, Kristiansund at the Ullevaal Stadium in Oslo, Norway on Tuesday 30 July 2019, KO 18:00 BST and the final match against AC Milan in the International Champions Cup at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales on Saturday 3 August 2019, KO 17:30 BST.

Goalkeeper: David De Gea

The Spanish goalkeeper has not played a single minute of football during pre-season, missing the 2-0 victory over Perth Glory and the 4-0 victory over Leeds United. Solskjaer has confirmed that the Spaniard has recovered from illness which stopped him from playing a part in both matches and he should be fit to face Inter Milan as he will need the minutes in order to prepare properly for the forthcoming season.

Defenders: Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Victor Lindelof, Axel Tuanzebe, Luke Shaw

United’s defence was a problem last season which is why the club is being linked with the likes of Harry Maguire. Aaron Wan-Bissaka played well against Leeds United on Wednesday, showing his defensive and attacking abilities, assisting Mason Greenwood’s opener. Luka Shaw can play similarly on the left. Victor Lindelof is the best defender at the club currently and maybe Axel Tuanzebe can be given a chance to show just what he can do against better opposition.

Midfielders: Scott McTominay, Paul Pogba

This midfield combination worked well against Leeds United, a game in which Paul Pogba was the Man of the Match based on what he did in the 45 minutes he played. In this match, both Pogba and Scott McTominay will need to play more minutes, if they are both selected, in order for them to be ready for the new season which is vastly approaching.

Attacking Midfield: Mason Greenwood, Angel Gomes, Daniel James

The duo of Mason Greenwood and Daniel James on the flanks and Rashford leading the line, United were able to use their pace in attack, which got the best against both Perth Glory and Leeds United. Adding Angel Gomes against Inter Milan could be a good move as he is tidy on the ball and can play a part similar to a young Juan Mata, a player he could emulate at the Old Trafford club.

Striker: Marcus Rashford

The 21-year-old has done well during pre-season so far, scoring twice in the matches against Perth Glory and Leeds United. Marcus Rashford is a player who can become a star in this team and has achieved a lot in the three and a half years he has been a part of the first team at United. He will be itching to get out there and show what he can do. Right now, he is in much better form than Anthony Martial, in terms of goalscoring, so leading the line should be his job for now, at least.

Substitutes: Sergio Romero, Joel Pereira; Eric Bailly, Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Marcos Rojo, Ashley Young, Diogo Dalot, Matteo Darmian; Juan Mata, Jesse Lingard, Andreas Pereira, Fred, Nemanja Matic, James Garner, Tahith Chong; Anthony Martial

Solskjaer confirmed that he would not be switching the entire team in the second half against Inter Milan and that some players would play 45 minutes, 60 minutes and even 70 minutes as they look to step up their match fitness ahead of the new season starting. The arrival of Matteo Darmian and Fred will give more depth to the squad, but both may not feature in this game. However, there is some strength in depth available in this squad with plenty of youth to choose from.

Filed Under: Feature, First Team, Managers, Match Previews, News, Opinion, Starting XI Tagged With: , , , , ,

Preview: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Manchester United ready for Inter Milan in Singapore

19 July 2019 by

Manchester United -v- Inter Milan

International Champions Cup

Singapore National Stadium, Singapore

Saturday 20 July 2019, KO 12:30 BST

Manchester United will take on Inter Milan in the International Champions Cup at the Singapore National Stadium on Saturday 20 July 2019, KO 12:30 BST. The match will be the first in the International Champions Cup this summer and the penultimate match in Asia. United have beaten both Perth Glory (2-0) and Leeds United (4-0) in Australia.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will go head to head with Antonio Conte in this match in a bid to test his squad ahead of the new Premier League season. Whilst winning the first two matches may have been impressive with the squad scoring six goals in total, conceding none, the players were hardly tested which is something the Italian team could do.

United will play three more pre-season matches after this one; Tottenham Hotspur in the International Champions Cup at the Hongkou Stadium in Shanghai on Thursday 25 July 2019, KO 12:30 BST, Kristiansund at the Ullevaal Stadium in Oslo, Norway on Tuesday 30 July 2019, KO 18:00 BST and the final match against AC Milan in the International Champions Cup at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales on Saturday 3 August 2019, KO 17:30 BST.

Form: Both United and Inter and undefeated in pre-season but United have played two matches to Inter’s one this summer

Manchester United: Leeds United 4-0 W, Perth Glory 2-0 W

Inter Milan: FC Lugano 2-1 W

Top Scorers: United has scored six goals in pre-season whilst Inter has scored just two. Marcus Rashford looking to be in the zone?

Manchester United: Scoring goals has been easy so far but it will become more difficult as pre-season continues

Goals: 2 – Marcus Rashford, 1 – Anthony Martial, James Garner, Mason Greenwood, Phil Jones

Assists: 1 – Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Andreas Pereira, Paul Pogba, Scott McTominay

United has already played two matches of their pre-season tour this summer, beating Perth Glory 2-0 in which Marcus Rashford (60′) and James Garner (85′) scored the goals. United also beat Leeds United 4-0 with goals from Mason Greenwood, Rashford, Phil Jones and a penalty by Anthony Martial. This will be the third match of the summer.

Inter Milan: Two goals scored in one pre-season match so far this summer – could be up for the challenge with United

Goals: 1 – Marcelo Brozovic, Stefano Sensi

Assists: 1 – Ivan Perisic, Marcelo Brozovic

Internazionale has played just one match of pre-season this summer, beating FC Lugano at the Comunale di Cornaredo in Switzerland. The match was a 2-1 victory with Stefano Sensi (25′) and Marcelo Brozovic (45′) scoring the goals in the first half with Lugano getting a goal back through Leutrim Kryeziu (87′). This will be Inter’s second match of the summer.

Team News: Romelu Lukaku out of this match, David De Gea and Luke Shaw should both be fit

Manchester United will be without Romelu Lukaku, who is not yet fit and has not played part in the pre-season matches so far this summer. There might be something in his prospective move to Inter Milan, however, it looks like that will not happen ahead of this match. David De Gea will train today and Luke Shaw should be ready to face Inter Milan. Solskjaer said:

“I think both will be available. Luke [Shaw] did a decent training session yesterday before we left [Perth] and David [De Gea] is probably well enough to train today. So we’ll try to get 60 minutes or longer out of him. It shouldn’t be too difficult, he’s a keeper!

“We’ll give some players 45 minutes, some will get 60, maybe up to 70. But, it’s another stepping stone. We’re not planning to swap all 11 at half-time this time around.”

Solskjaer confirmed that he will not change the entire team at half time for this game. He has confirmed that some players will play 45 minutes, some 60 minutes, some 70 minutes. As the opposition quality has gone up more than a notch, it is important to get these players ready for the start of the new season, which starts against Chelsea at Old Trafford.

Predicted Starting XI: A strong team to take on Inter Milan in Singapore. Marcus Rashford to bag another goal? Daniel James to shine again? Axel Tuanzebe to be given a chance to show his ability?

Manchester United will probably start a strong team against Inter Milan on Saturday in Singapore. I expect Marcus Rashford to lead the line, supported by Daniel James (left), Mason Greenwood (right) and Angel Gomes, playing in the middle behind Rashford. A midfield duo of Paul Pogba and Scott McTominay would be a good fit in this team.

The defence is something that may need to change, in order to find the best fit. Axel Tuanzebe deserves a chance against a higher calibre of opposition, especially with the fact that he did not feature in the 4-0 victory over Leeds United on Wednesday. Victor Lindelof should partner him. Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Luka Shaw should both play with David De Gea in goal for the first time this summer.

Match Prediction: Manchester United to be tested by Inter Milan but could have the skills, pace and ability to make it three wins in a row

United has played Inter Milan four times; twice twenty years ago in the UEFA Champions League, winning 2-0 at Old Trafford with a brace from Dwight Yorke and drawing 1-1 at the San Siro with Paul Scholes scoring an equaliser two minutes from time. United progressed to the final that season, beating Bayern Munich. United also faced Inter a decade ago in the Champions League; drawing 0-0 at the San Siro and winning 2-0 at Old Trafford with goals from Nemanja Vidic and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Manchester United 2-1 Inter Milan

Filed Under: Feature, First Team, Managers, Match Previews, News, Opinion Tagged With: , , , , ,

Starting XI: Rashford leads the line for Manchester United as they look to lift the FA Cup; Lukaku on the bench!

19 May 2018 by

Manchester United face Chelsea at Wembley in the final of the Emirates FA Cup this season. Both teams earned their Wembley final by getting through a mixture of Premier League and Football League teams, contesting the oldest domestic competition in England. United have won the cup 12 times, only Arsenal winning it 13 times stand ahead of them. Chelsea have won the cup seven times.

United last won the FA Cup in the 2015/16 season under Louis van Gaal, beating Crystal Palace in the final. Van Gaal was sacked soon after and Jose Mourinho then became the United manager, vastly improving his team and results with only the playing style to be brought to a better standard. Chelsea last won the cup in 2012, beating Liverpool.

Manchester United:

De Gea;

Valencia, Jones, Smalling, Young;

Herrera, Matic, Pogba;

Lingard, Rashford, Sanchez

Substitutes:

Romero; Bailly, Darmian; Mata, McTominay, Lukaku, Martial

Manchester United and Chelsea have a bitter rivalry which became a challenge only after Chelsea became a money club, spending great amounts to become much better. In all fairness, starting this season as the Premier League champions, finishing fifth will be something they should be criticised for by the media but it has not happened yet, although United have been criticised for finishing second, coming from sixth last season.

There has been 179 matches played between the two sides in the history of both clubs; United winning 77 times, the pair drawing 49 times and Chelsea winning 53 times. During the last two seasons, Mourinho versus Conte, United have won both matches at Old Trafford, losing both matches at Stamford Bridge. Mourinho will be seeking his second win over Chelsea this season, whilst Conte will be seeking the same, aiming to end the season on a high, which may also end with his sacking.

Filed Under: Feature, First Team, Managers, News, Opinion, Starting XI Tagged With: , , , , ,

Ratings: Lukaku and Matic shone, Lingard showed his class in Chelsea victory

25 February 2018 by

Manchester United beat Chelsea 2-1 at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon. Willian opened the scoring for Chelsea in the 32nd minute with United equalising through Romelu Lukaku seven minutes later. Jesse Lingard came off the bench to win the game for United, scoring in the 75th minute which was set up by Lukaku.

Key Moments:

32′ United were on the attack, Chelsea won possession and launched a counter-attack with Willian leaving United’s defence out of position before firing past David De Gea to take the lead in the match.

39′ Romelu Lukaku found the equaliser for Manchester United after Alexis Sanchez found Anthony Martial with the Frenchman doing brilliantly to find the Belgian, who scored his first goal against former club Chelsea, also his first goal against a top-eight Premier League club this season.

64′ Alexis Sanchez put a sublime ball into the box for Romelu Lukaku, who shot towards goal. It could have been the goal to put United ahead for the first time but Thibaut Courtois made an important save to stop United taking the lead.

75′ Manchester United took the lead for the first time in the match after Jesse Lingard found the back of the net which was assisted by Romelu Lukaku making it a goal and an assist against his former club on the day.

Man of the Match: Romelu Lukaku

The Belgian striker has been criticised in recent weeks but today against his former club he showed his class. United has moments before Chelsea scored that they should have maybe capitalised from. After Willian’s strike, Lukaku seemed more determined to find an equaliser, which he did seven minutes later with the help of Alexis Sanchez.

Lukaku then continued to fight for his team, who needed the victory more than ever. Jesse Lingard scored what turned into the winner in the 75th minute of the match, which was assisted by the Belgian. In the final minute of the game, Lukaku still never gave up, pushed forward and got the ball into the box on his own, with no support, earning a throw-in. Great game by Lukaku.

Match Statistics: Chelsea dominated the statistics but still lost the game…

Manchester United

1 David De Gea

The Spaniard as unfortunate not to keep a clean sheet against Chelsea. De Gea was beaten at the near post by Willian's strike in the 32nd minute of the game. Made a great save to deny Morata in the opening few minutes though.

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25 Antonio Valencia

It was not the best defensive display for the Ecuadorian, not that it was expected to be. Alonso pushed Valencia back at times. Booked for a poor challenge too.

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2 Victor Lindelof

The Swedish defender did not have the best of games but the result will mask that. He's not played this regularly before and needs time to get into the game. Hazard drew Lindelof and two of his teammates out of their positions for the opening goal, scored by Willian.

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Chris Smalling

The England defender did well against Chelsea. Earned his plaudits. Put in a great tackle to stop Pedro after United had taken the lead. Was fouled by Morata from behind when he was going forward.

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18 Ashley Young

The opening goal started on his flank. Defensively, he's not the left-back that should be playing. Luke Shaw needs to earn the trust of the manager with his performances. However, Young did recover after the opening goal and played a good game at times.

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39 Scott McTominay

The 20-year-old was tasked with marking Hazard, something he did well for large spells of the game. He passed the ball to Lukaku which turned into the winner scored by Lingard. Amazing when managers trust Academy graduates.

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31 Nemanja Matic

The Serbian midfielder played well against his former side. Matic put in some hard tackles and distributed the ball effectively.

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6 Paul Pogba

Pogba was back in the starting XI agsinst Chelsea. As Souness would put it, it was only due to injury of other players. How bitter. Pogba did not have the best of games, lost the ball cheaply and was beaten in the air. Together though, the team was effective.

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Alexis Sanchez

Played well at times but made the mistake of not scoring when a great chance fell at his feet. Was determined through his participation in the game though.

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Romelu Lukaku

Man of the Match for me. His equaliser was a sweet strike against his former club. Now he's scored against a side in the top eight this season. The Belgian was unplayable at times.

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9 Anthony Martial

The Frenchman set up the equaliser for Lukaku. Played a good game at times. Was replaced by Lingard, the scorer of the winner, which made a baffling substitution look justified.

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Substitutes

14 Jesse Lingard

Replaced Martial 64'. Scored the winner in the game. He's hated by many and that is not something I understand. Always does what he needs to do. Important victory today.

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3 Eric Bailly

Replaced Sanchez 81'. Did what he needed to do but had little involvement in the game. Great to see him being edged in slowly to prevent a further injury.

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Goals: Romelu Lukaku 39′, Jesse Lingard 75′

Assists: Anthony Martial 39′, Romelu Lukaku 75′

Manchester United: De Gea; Valencia, Lindelof, Smalling, Young; McTominay, Matic, Pogba; Sanchez (Bailly 81′), Lukaku, Martial (Lingard 64′)

Substitutes Not Used: Pereira; Shaw; Mata, Carrick; Rashford

Bookings: Antonio Valencia 69′, Nemanja Matic 85′

Filed Under: Feature, First Team, Managers, Opinion, Player Ratings Tagged With: , , , , ,

Report: Lukaku and Lingard beat Chelsea as Manchester United return to second in the league

25 February 2018 by

Manchester United beat Chelsea 2-1 at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon. Willian opened the scoring for Chelsea in the 32nd minute with United equalising through Romelu Lukaku seven minutes later. Jesse Lingard came off the bench to win the game for United, scoring in the 75th minute which was set up by Lukaku.

Jose Mourinho made two changes to the team which drew 0-0 with Sevilla in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday evening. Paul Pogba replaced the injured Ander Herrera and Anthony Martial replaced Juan Mata in the team. Sergio Romero was missing from the bench with Joel Pereira coming in for the Argentinian.

United did not have the best of starts with Chelsea winning a corner inside the first minute of the match, which came to nothing for the visitors. Chelsea seemed more fluid on the attack and in the second minute, Paul Pogba tackled Willian, winning the ball with the Brazilian looking for a free-kick for a foul. Nothing was giving in Chelsea’s favour.

Chelsea had a shot on target in the fourth minute of the match with Alvaro Morata hitting the crossbar, United struggling to make the clearance and then another shot coming in with David De Gea helping it over the crossbar for a Chelsea corner, the second of the game for them. United broke forward from the clearance with Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez bursting forward, nothing gained.

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In the tenth minute of the match, with United enjoying more possession, United won a corner at the edge of the box after Pogba was fouled. The resulting free-kick ended up in the box but with Thibaut Courtois catching it and sending his team up field on the attack. The game continued end to end with no real chances coming through for a period of time.

In the 24th minute, Paul Pogba put an inviting cross into the box by Courtois claimed it. United then had a period in Chelsea’s half but were unable to get anything from the attacks other than putting pressure on the reigning Premier League champions. In the 28th minute, United launched a counter-attack with Martial finding Sanchez but Courtois gathered the ball. United were playing well.

That didn’t last for long though with Chelsea counter-attacking and Willian leaving United defence well out of position and firing Chelsea into the lead in the 32nd minute of the match. United needed an equaliser before the end of the half. Romelu Lukaku found the equaliser in the 39th minute after Sanchez found Martial who set up the Belgian to score his first goal against Chelsea.

There were two minutes added at the end of the first half. United broke forward after Chelsea were in United’s half, the ball was passed into the box to Martial with Chelsea getting a deflection before the Frenchman was flagged for offside. The game was all even at the end of the first half with all to play for in the second half. Both teams could win this.

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There were no changes for either side at the start of the second half. Both United and Chelsea had broken forward in the early stages of the half with United having more opportunities to break forward but Chelsea were regaining possession and creating attacks of their own. Nemanja Matic was playing well, twice snuffing out attacking play by his former club.

Just before the hour mark of the match, Chelsea had another chance to take the lead through Danny Drinkwater but De Gea made the stop but was unable to keep hold of the ball. United did well to avert the danger to stop the London club capitalising. Just after the hour mark, it looked like Jesse Lingard was being readied by Jose Mourinho to play a part in the match.

In the 64th minute of the match, Anthony Martial was replaced by Jesse Lingard. After the change United started to look better again, gaining ground and looking to attack. In the 68th minute, Sanchez put a cross into the box for Lukaku, the Belgian firing towards goal by Courtois making an important save to deny the home side from taking the lead for the first time in the match.

United took the lead in the 75th minute of the match, the first time they have led during this game. Jesse Lingard was the scorer of the goal – perhaps he will be criticised by those who despise him, despite him scoring his eighth goal in the Premier League this season, his 13th in all competitions this season.

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Jose Mourinho made his second change of the game in the 81st minute with Alexis Sanchez being replaced by Eric Bailly. United won a free-kick deep in Chelsea’s half after N’Golo Kante fouled Valencia but nothing came from the slight advantage United had. Chelsea were looking to find something from this mate in the late stages of the game. Alvaro Morata did score but was ruled offside.

United won another free-kick in the late stages of the game after Morata fouled Chris Smalling, bringing him down from behind and earning himself a yellow card. United were still in the driving seat thanks to Lingard’s goal. United were still trying to win the match, which should satisfy the fans as United were the better team for large spells in the game.

There were four minutes added on at the end of the match. Nemanja Matic was down, which would add more stoppage time to the game. The player left the pitch for treatment but was soon back on to help his side. There was a bit of excitement at the end of the game with Lukaku running forwards, getting the ball into the box on his own before Chelsea put the ball out for a throw-in.

United won the match, which was a great result for Jose Mourinho and his players. It should also appease the fans who want to sack the manager but I doubt it. You only ever hear from them after a defeat anyway, which is funny as it really does make them look like part-time Manchester United supporters. United have restored second place in the Premier League.

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Key Moments:

32′ United were on the attack, Chelsea won possession and launched a counter-attack with Willian leaving United’s defence out of position before firing past David De Gea to take the lead in the match.

39′ Romelu Lukaku found the equaliser for Manchester United after Alexis Sanchez found Anthony Martial with the Frenchman doing brilliantly to find the Belgian, who scored his first goal against former club Chelsea, also his first goal against a top-eight Premier League club this season.

64′ Alexis Sanchez put a sublime ball into the box for Romelu Lukaku, who shot towards goal. It could have been the goal to put United ahead for the first time but Thibaut Courtois made an important save to stop United taking the lead.

75′ Manchester United took the lead for the first time in the match after Jesse Lingard found the back of the net which was assisted by Romelu Lukaku making it a goal and an assist against his former club on the day.

Man of the Match: Romelu Lukaku

The Belgian striker has been criticised in recent weeks but today against his former club he showed his class. United has moments before Chelsea scored that they should have maybe capitalised from. After Willian’s strike, Lukaku seemed more determined to find an equaliser, which he did seven minutes later with the help of Alexis Sanchez.

Lukaku then continued to fight for his team, who needed the victory more than ever. Jesse Lingard scored what turned into the winner in the 75th minute of the match, which was assisted by the Belgian. In the final minute of the game, Lukaku still never gave up, pushed forward and got the ball into the box on his own, with no support, earning a throw-in. Great game by Lukaku.

Match Statistics: Chelsea dominated the statistics but still lost the game…

Goals: Romelu Lukaku 39′, Jesse Lingard 75′

Assists: Anthony Martial 39′, Romelu Lukaku 75′

Manchester United: De Gea; Valencia, Lindelof, Smalling, Young; McTominay, Matic, Pogba; Sanchez (Bailly 81′), Lukaku, Martial (Lingard 64′)

Substitutes Not Used: Pereira; Shaw; Mata, Carrick; Rashford

Bookings: Antonio Valencia 69′, Nemanja Matic 85′

Filed Under: Feature, First Team, Managers, Match Reports, Opinion Tagged With: , , , , ,

Confirmed Starting XI: Paul Pogba and Anthony Martial start against Chelsea!

25 February 2018 by

Manchester United welcome Chelsea at Old Trafford in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon. United have the chance to reduce the deficit with Manchester City in the Premier League to 13 points, with City not facing Arsenal in the league until Thursday evening – having to play the North London club for the contention of the Carabao Cup after United’s encounter with Chelsea.

United are no longer fighting to contest the destination of the Premier League title as City have a great lead right now. What they are fighting for is to remain in the position they have spent the majority of the season in and to remain in the top for as it is all getting close with just five points separating Liverpool in second and Tottenham Hotspur in fifth.

Manchester United:

De Gea;

Valencia, Lindelof, Smalling, Young;

McTominay, Matic, Pogba;

Sanchez, Lukaku, Martial

Substitutes:

Pereira; Bailly, Shaw; Mata, Lingard, Carrick; Rashford

Manchester United and Chelsea have played 178 matches in the history of both clubs – the first match being played on the 25th December 1905, a 0-0 draw in the old Football League Division Two. United have won 76 of the matches played, drawn 49 and lost 53 times.

United do not have a great record against Chelsea recently but at Old Trafford, the last time they were beaten was on the 5th May 2013, a 1-0 defeat with Juan Mata scoring the only goal of the game three minutes from time. In this fixture last season, United won 2-0 with Marcus Rashford and Ander Herrera scoring the goals.

Earlier this season, United were beaten again at Stamford Bridge, a 1-0 defeat which was an improvement on the 4-0 defeat last season.

Filed Under: Feature, First Team, Managers, News, Opinion, Starting XI Tagged With: , , , , ,

How Manchester United could look in a 4-3-3 against Chelsea at the Theatre of Dreams

24 February 2018 by

Manchester United will go head to head with reigning Premier League champions Chelsea at the Theatre of Dreams on Sunday afternoon. Earlier in the season, United were beaten, again, by Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. It was only a 1-0 defeat, so an improvement on the 4-0 defeat in the fixture last season.

Last season at Old Trafford, United won 2-0. A result which came out of nowhere with Ander Herrera man-marking Eden Hazard, nullifying him from the match. This weekend, Herrera will be out of action due to an injury sustained in the 0-0 draw with Sevilla in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday evening.

Starting XI Formation and Prediction: Mourinho to set up in a 4-3-3 formation against his former club?

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Goalkeeper: David De Gea

The Manchester United and Spain number one is earning his plaudits this season. The save he put in from a Luis Muriel shot before half-time was one of his best saves this season, possibly in his United career. De Gea has kept the most clean sheets in the Premier League this season, 15 with is two more than Chelsea counterpart Thibaut Courtois.

De Gea’s importance at the Old Trafford club has grown over the years. Many will see a great performance by a goalkeeper as something negative, meaning the team has been slammed by the opposition. Goalkeepers like De Gea are the beat in the world because of this. If he was never tested at a high level, the label ‘best in the world’ would be something unproven.

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Back Four: Antonio Valencia, Victor Lindelof, Eric Bailly, Luke Shaw

United’s defence needs to find some consistency during the next three Premier League matches, in which two are against Chelsea and Liverpool. United have been pushed into second place in the league after Liverpool beat West Ham United 3-1 at Anfield, meaning beating Chelsea is even more important – as it will be to beat Liverpool at Old Trafford in a fortnight. Antonio Valencia is the best right-back at the club this season and Luke Shaw is the best left-back.

Whether Jose Mourinho agrees is a different story but he has praised Shaw in recent weeks. The central defence is a precarious position as there are many injuries with Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo and Daley Blind out injured. This leaves Victor Lindelof, Chris Smalling, and Eric Bailly – who is only just back from injury himself. Lindelof and Bailly need to play together at a high level. Starting both against Chelsea would be a baptism of fire, maybe.

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Midfield Three: Scott McTominay, Nemanja Matic, Paul Pogba

United’s midfield is not as strong as it could be this season. There is also fatigue which could be playing a part. Nemanja Matic has played the majority of matches this season, having a rest from time to time. I expected him to be rested against Sevilla in the UEFA Champions League but was criticised on Twitter for even making that suggestion. I have picked him here but I think it might be Michael Carrick who steps in as he was not part of the travelling squad to play in Spain this week.

Saying that United do have a week before their next match, away to Crystal Palace on Monday 5th March which will give them seven consecutive days to prepare for the match. With Ander Herrera and Marouane Fellaini out of action due to injury, Scott McTominay will be tasked with another match this week, which will be great for his development. Many suggest Paul Pogba will be benched again but playing him after being praised by Mourinho for his quickness to get warmed up after Herrera’s injury suggests to me that he will play against Chelsea – he needs to and play well at that.

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Forward Three: Juan Mata, Anthony Martial, Alexis Sanchez

United have many attacking players in the squad who are fit to play. Marcus Rashford is one of those after making his return against Sevilla. Jamie Redknapp stated that Rashford is a victim at Old Trafford after the arrival of Alexis Sanchez, seeming to forget that he has not been involved recently due to injury, not being overlooked by the manager. I think Juan Mata may be picked over Rashford, but that will depend on how the 20-year-old has trained and recovered from his return from injury.

I have picked Anthony Martial to lead the line to take some pressure off Romelu Lukaku, who has scored 21 goals in all competitions this season but is maybe in need of a break to recharge his batteries. Lukaku has put in some good performances and despite the lack of service, has done well at times. Martial has been benched with Alexis Sanches playing on the left-wing, or the Frenchman is played out of position on the right, not a strong area for him. Sanchez could occupy a place on the left, which may mean Luke Shaw is exposed, with Sanchez not tracking back.

Filed Under: Feature, First Team, Managers, Opinion, Starting XI Tagged With: , , , , ,

Preview: Manchester United need to keep Old Trafford a fortress against Chelsea in must-win encounter

24 February 2018 by

Manchester United -v- Chelsea

Old Trafford, Manchester

Premier League 2017/18

Sunday 25th February 2018; KO 14:05 GMT

Live on Sky Sports Premier League HD

Manchester United welcome Chelsea at Old Trafford in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon. United have the chance to reduce the deficit with Manchester City in the Premier League to 13 points, with City not facing Arsenal in the league until Thursday evening – having to play the North London club for the contention of the Carabao Cup after United’s encounter with Chelsea. United are no longer fighting to contest the destination of the Premier League title as City have a great lead right now. What they are fighting for is to remain in the position they have spent the majority of the season in and to remain in the top for as it is all getting close with just four points separating United in second and Tottenham Hotspur in fifth.

This season has been an improvement for United in terms of moving on in the league. Last season United finished sixth and occupied the places around their eventual finish for much of the season. This season they have been in second place for the majority of the season and did, at one stage, have a cushion in that position which has since gone. In the next few weeks, after the important Chelsea fixture, United will travel to Crystal Palace and welcome Liverpool to Old Trafford. Facing both Chelsea and Liverpool at this stage of the season means that United will need to win both matches to keep some distance between the two sides in the league table.

Form: Both United and Chelsea have lost twice, drawn once and won three matches in the last six in all competitions

Manchester United: DWLWLW – Sevilla 0-0 D, Huddersfield Town 2-0 W, Newcastle United 1-0 L, Huddersfield Town 2-0 W, Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 L, Yeovil Town 4-0 W

Chelsea: DWWLLW – Barcelona 1-1 D, Hull City 4-0 W, West Bromwich Albion 3-0 W, Watford 4-1 L, Bournemouth 3-0 L, Newcastle United 3-0 W

Previous Matches: Manchester United have not lost against Chelsea at Old Trafford since 2013

Manchester United and Chelsea have played 178 matches in the history of both clubs – the first match being played on the 25th December 1905, a 0-0 draw in the old Football League Division Two. United have won 76 of the matches played, drawn 49 and lost 53 times. United do not have a great record against Chelsea recently but at Old Trafford, the last time they were beaten was on the 5th May 2013, a 1-0 defeat with Juan Mata scoring the only goal of the game three minutes from time. In this fixture last season, United won 2-0 with Marcus Rashford and Ander Herrera scoring the goals. Earlier this season, United were beaten again at Stamford Bridge, a 1-0 defeat which was an improvement on the 4-0 defeat last season.

Team News: Ander Herrera, Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo, Daley Blind, Marouane Fellaini, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to miss Chelsea clash

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has confirmed that Ander Herrera is out of the Chelsea clash and could be out for a number of weeks. The manager also confirmed that none of the other injured players will be involved against the reigning Premier League champions as they have not recovered in time. This means that Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo, Daley Blind, Marouane Fellaini, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic will all be absent. Speaking in his press conference on Friday, Mourinho confirmed:

“Ander [Herrera] is out. I don’t know the final diagnosis but I know he’ll be out for a few weeks. I don’t know how many is a few – two, three, four, five, six weeks – I don’t know, but a few weeks, for sure. Coming back from injury – nobody else.”

Chelsea trio David Luiz, Tiemoue Bakayoko, and Ross Barkley have also been ruled out of the fixture by manager Antonio Conte.

Predicted Starting XI: 

Predicted Score: 

Manchester United 2-1 Chelsea

Filed Under: Feature, First Team, Managers, Match Previews, Opinion Tagged With: , , , , ,

copyright: JW