Manchester United are one step closer to confirming their place in next season’s Champions League after a 1-0 win over Aston Villa at Old Trafford, with Bruno Fernandes’ first-half strike proving to be enough for all three points.
United have now won four out of their last five Premier League games, with the only blip being the 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur earlier this week.
Erik ten Hag’s men dominated proceedings for most of the game but much like on many other occasions this season, they just could not find the killer blow and finish the game off.
Instead, the Reds endured a nervy ending but Ten Hag will have been delighted to see plenty of his regulars performing at a high level once more.
Man United Player Ratings
David de Gea – 7
Made a couple of comfortable saves. Did well on corners when Aston Villa targetted him.
Diogo Dalot – 9
Almost the perfect performance from the Portuguese international.
Victor Lindelof – 10
Keeps building on his Wembley heroics with yet another flawless performance.
Luke Shaw – 9
Continues to be comfortable at centre-back.
Tyrell Malacia – 8
Great performance after a tough couple of weeks, especially in the first half.
Casemiro – 9
If supporters were fearing that Casemiro was starting to feel the effects of a long and gruelling season, that performance was a reminder that he is not like other players.
Christian Eriksen – 7
One of the main reasons United were able to comfortably recollect and recycle possession in the first half.
Bruno Fernandes – 8
Played on the right-hand side for all of the 90 minutes – captain’s goal when his side needed it the most.
Marcel Sabitzer – 7
It’s becoming increasingly clear why Ten Hag prefers him over Fred and that’s his ball retention skills.
Jadon Sancho – 6
Had a field day against Ashley Young but decision-making in the final third was lacking.
Marcus Rashford – 6
Just didn’t fall right for him this time. Goal number 30 will come soon.