Two Manchester United players marked milestone appearances during tonight’s clash with Brentford at Old Trafford.
The match ended 1-0 in the Reds’ favour after Marcus Rashford’s first-half goal, his 28th of the season, was enough to secure all three points.
It was a crucial win too, as United were on the back of a three-game winless and goalless streak – one that Erik ten Hag and the players would’ve been happy to nip in the bud this evening. United are now back in the top four after dropping to fifth on Monday.
Luke Shaw started the match to mark his 250th appearance as a Red, just a day after putting pen to paper and committing his future to the club with a four-year contract extension. After signing for the club in 2014, he has gone on to play a vital role under each manager and is undoubtedly one of the best in his position across Europe.
Unfortunately, he left the pitch early during tonight’s game with an apparent hamstring injury. Hopefully, it’s nothing serious and he can be back in action for our forthcoming fixtures.
Fred makes Red Devils history
As well as Shaw, Fred also registered a landmark appearance when he was substituted into the match in the second half. The midfielder is the first-ever Brazilian to achieve the record number of 200 matches for United, as well as the second South American, with the first being former club captain Antonio Valencia.
The 30-year-old has been invaluable to Erik ten Hag this season, being reliable when called upon and even finding the back of the net on occasion, having scored six goals across the campaign so far. They’ve all come in front of the Old Trafford faithful, who proudly sing his chant during his time on the field – “Fred, Fred will tear you apart again!”
Here’s to many more for both Reds.
It’s back to business again after the Newcastle setback.
If Manchester United continue to grind out results like this, they should keep the top 4 targets in their sight and could even consolidate it further.
THE lack of a prolific striker, despite Marcus Rashford’s efficiency is the big difference in the goal advantage.