Manchester United and Manchester City both appeared to play within themselves in the first goalless derby since 2010.
It was as if, with such a long way to go in the title race, neither side was prepared to take the requisite risks to make a breakthrough – better to leave with a point than allow the opponent to get the upper hand in the title race.
As it is both Manchester United and City live to fight another day.
Although LvG will be desperate for silverware of any kind this season, he will surely give some of his stars a much needed rest ahead of another pivotal period at home and in Europe before the next international break.
There is an argument to play Wayne Rooney as a couple of goals against lesser opposition may give him the platform he needs to get through this current period of horrible form.
But we think that he could use the rest.
Others need minutes, including Fellaini and Lingard, who both impressed in their cameo appearances against Manchester City on Sunday.
Jones and Memphis need more match rhythm too so, in general, it could be a rather experimental line up, but still good enough to reach the next round.
So here is our XI for The Capital One Cup.
Manchester United fans: goods enough to take the tie?
