Final Score: Leicester City 2-2 Manchester United
Manchester United salvaged a single point from their game against Leicester City, owing to goals from Juan Mata. The Spaniard rose to the occasion and scored a stunning brace to keep the Red Devils ahead of Claude Puel’s men, in the game. Unfortunately for United though, a late goal from Harry Maguire ensured that United dropped 13 points behind high-flying Manchester City. As the New Year approaches, the Red Devils’ title hopes seem to be going up in smoke.
Let’s take a look at how the United players fared against a solid Foxes side.
Manchester United Player Ratings
David De Gea – 6/10
De Gea could have arguably been more effective in trying to stop Jamie Vardy’s goal.
Victor Lindelof – 6.5/10
Despite being deployed at right-back, Lindelof managed to make an important block and did decently enough.
Phil Jones – 7/10
Jones was responsible for the first goal but he looked a lot more solid at the back as time wore on.
Chris Smalling – 5.5/10
Smalling was reliable but he allowed Riyad Mahrez too much space in the build-up to Leicester’s goal. However, he was quite strong in the air.
Ashley Young – 7/10
Young commanded the left-hand side quite well and even provided attacking support to cap off a decent day at work.
Nemanja Matic – 8/10
Matic once again put in an effective performance to establish and maintain control over the midfield area. He also played a role in United’s first goal.
Paul Pogba – 7/10
Pogba made worthy contributions throughout the course of the game but he lacked presence in the final third.
Juan Mata – 9/10
Mata was on fire last night. He kept moving across the field and kept trying to make things happen. Scored two wonderful goals, which was merely the cherry on top.
Jesse Lingard – 6.5/10
Lingard provided an assist for Mata and worked truly hard. However, he could not get his name on the score sheet.
Anthony Martial – 6/10
Martial caused a lot of trouble for Danny Simpson but he missed a good chance to score in the second half.
Romeu Lukaku – 6.5/10
Lukaku may not have scored but he was quite effective at link-up play.
Subs:
Marcus Rashford – 6/10
Injected some fresh energy into the attack but nothing came out of it.
Ander Herrera – 5/10
Came on for Lingard but he lacked presence in the field.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan – N/A
Came on too late to replace the sublime Mata.