91% passer and 66-touch player dazzle – Man United’s three winners vs Aston Villa
Ruben Amorim will be able to take positives from his Man United side’s defeat against Aston Villa.
Man United’s 4-4 draw with Bournemouth was backed up with a more defensively solid display at Villa Park, even if Morgan Rogers netted twice for the hosts.
Rogers scored a goal in either half, either side of a Matheus Cunha goal for Man United, in a win which keeps up Aston Villa‘s incredible form.
Man United’s inconsistency continues to hurt them, but below are the three players who performed well in defeat at Aston Villa.
Matheus Cunha
The attacker was a bright spark for Man United going forward, with the 26-year-old always willing to get on the ball to try and make something happen.
Matheus Cunha is also unafraid to have a shot on goal, and in the absence of Bryan Mbeumo due to the African Cup of Nations, he was more important for Amorim’s side against Aston Villa.
| Minutes Played | 90 |
| Touches | 66 |
| Shots | 6 |
| Big Chances Missed | 1 |
The former Wolves star curled home a fine equaliser just before half-time when he profited from a mistake by Matty Cash, and he should have had a second when he headed wide a golden chance.
Ayden Heaven
The young defender made a couple of important challenges in the first half, particularly when Ollie Watkins was about to shoot inside the penalty area.
The 19-year-old has started the past four games and is starting to cement his position in the back three.
Ayden Heaven looked composed and not out of place at Villa Park, in what can be one of the toughest places to go in the Premier League.
Heaven won four of his five aerial duels, and three of his four ground duels, whilst also making the most clearances of any player on the pitch.
Lisandro Martinez
Lisandro Martinez has been out of action with an ACL injury, but the Argentine is now back for the Red Devils.
The defender was given more minutes than expected, and in midfield, due to an injury suffered by captain Bruno Fernandes.
Martinez’s return, and getting through 45 minutes unscathed, can only be positive news for Amorim in this busy period.
The 27-year-old looked comfortable in midfield, successfully completing 91% of his passes, winning all his aerial duels and tackles.