Now that is more like it! Manchester United entered the last chance saloon on Wednesday and came out stinking of booze and women with a huge smile on the face.
Let’s have a look at how the players rated:
David de Gea – On most occasions he would have got man of the match for several sublime saves which kept Manchester United in Europe. 9
Patrice Evra – Much derided over the last year but one of soccer sweep’s favourite players down the years. He went missing again in defence a few times on Tuesday but he sums u what Manchester United is all about. Bucaneering, attacking brilliance. 7
Rio Ferdinand – He was exposed a little early on but this was mainly due to the initial shakiness of Phil Jones. He went on to give a masterclass in composure and technique. His passing out of defence is exactly what Manchester United have missed this season. 8
Phil Jones – He will always put in a shift and we definitely see him as a future Vidic – the hard bugger who does the nuts and bolts stuff in the defence. Can still improve his positioning. 6
Rafa – Some believe that he’s a red card waiting to happen. But those who dare win and we think that Rafa offers immeasurably more than he takes away front his side – dynamism, pace going forward (and to make up for the odd mistake). He’s a proper Manchester United player. 8
Welbeck – Another who could easily have got MoM for Manchester United. He completely changed the dynamic of this team. Pace power and an amazing engine. If Welbeck was less leggy in front of goal he could be a world star. 9
Carrick – Performed better than of late and seemed much more comfortable playing alongside Giggsy. 7
Giggs – Although he was far less prominent in the second half, the impact that he had in the first 45 defied belief. Giggs masterminded this victory at 40 years of age. What a joy to watch and how could you possibly replace him? 9
Valencia – You can never fault this guy for application and his pace was exactly what Manchester United needed last night to ruffle the opposition feathers. But his end product still leaves a lot to be desired. 6
Rooney – Another who could easily have been the MoM. Without Rooney Manchester United would truly be up a smelly creak. 9
RvP – At his clinical best. RvP made the point recently that he’s not getting any chances during games. It’s is a fair point. Last night he got three and put them all away. 8
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