Manchester United are through to the next round of the Carabao Cup after defeating Aston Villa at Old Trafford in a turbulent 4-2 game.
Erik ten Hag’s men had the chance to get back to winning ways after succumbing to defeat at Villa Park over the weekend and after a frantic second half, their passage to the fourth round has been confirmed.
The first half was unenjoyable but the state of play completely changed after the interval as United came back from a goal down twice to eventually win the game.
Anthony Martial marked his return to the side with a goal, Marcus Rashford celebrated his World Cup call-up with his eighth strike of the season, whilst Bruno Fernandes capped a brilliant display with the winner.
Alejandro Garnacho came on as a second-half substitute and it’s safe to say that despite only playing 28 minutes, he will be stealing most of the headlines. It was his spectacular cross that found Scott McTominay for United’s fourth goal.
Man United Player Ratings
Martin Dubravka – 6
Barely had anything to do all game and could do very little for either of the goals. Nice moment for him to make his debut.
Diogo Dalot – 7
Very unfortunate to score the own-goal but it was another great outing just hours after it was confirmed that he will be going to his first World Cup.
Victor Lindelof – 6
He struggled with Ollie Watkins in the league meeting between these two teams but he wasn’t as much of a problem this time. A largely positive performance.
Harry Maguire – 6
A couple of nervy moments but an overall solid outing.
Tyrell Malacia – 7
Like Maguire, looked to be in trouble a couple of times but he recovered well.
Fred – 6
Fell victim to the nonsense in the first half and was one of the first players to be withdrawn as United chased the game.
Scott McTominay – 8
He has a point to prove after losing his place to Casemiro and he did well.
Donny van de Beek – 4
Another tough game for the Dutchman. He’s been injured for a long time and it’s going to take time before he’s up to speed but the early signs are not encouraging.
Bruno Fernandes – 9
Badly missed in the league meeting and his return to the team today was huge. United lack intensity whenever he’s not on the pitch and he brought it in this game. He provided the assist for Martial’s goal and then scored the winner.
Marcus Rashford – 8
Keeps his fine form going heading into the World Cup – he will be fancying his chances of a starting place in Gareth Southgate’s side.
Anthony Martial – 7
The Frenchman has performed whenever he’s played this season and if he can finally rid his injury issues, Ten Hag will be handed a huge boost after the break.
Substitutes
Christian Eriksen – 7
United immediately looked like a more potent side when he came on – they lack creativity whenever he’s not on the pitch.
Alejandro Garnacho – 8
What a cameo by the 18-year-old. Supporters will be praying that he commits his long-term future immediately.
Anthony Elanga – 6
Not on the pitch for long but pressed well.
Casemiro – N/A
Martinez – N/A
bravo garnacho