‘Making a big difference’: Paul Scholes picks out experienced United trio for high praise in Villa win

Manchester United's English defender #05 Harry Maguire applauds the fans following the English Premier League football match between Aston Villa and Manchester United at Villa Park in Birmingham, central England on February 11, 2024. (Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Paul Scholes, who is often critical of his former club, was impressed with Manchester United’s showing in Sunday’s win over Aston Villa.

The Reds’ victory on the road was nothing short of a pivotal one as it closed their gap on the Champions League places to six points, as well as making them five points off of fifth-placed Villa.

Across United’s tumultuous start to the 2023/2024 campaign, Erik ten Hag frequently insisted that the side’s form would pick up when the debilitating injury crisis came to a close and players returned to the fold. Now that that’s the case, his squad has proven him right.

The likes of Casemiro and Harry Maguire – mainstays in the starting 11 – were both sidelined for extended periods and their absences could certainly be felt amongst the team.

Scholes lauds United trio for their impact vs Villa

Scholes poured praise on the pair last night, along with match-winner Scott McTominay after his 86th-minute header sealed the victory and made him United’s top goalscorer in the league.

“Casemiro coming in is a big plus, the form of Maguire, in both boxes, he was very good today, and McTominay has been a real threat when he’s come on. He’s making a big difference to the team,” the club legend stated on Premier League Productions.

More Stories Aston Villa Casemiro Harry Maguire Paul Scholes Premier League Scott McTominay