Manchester United player ratings v West Ham: De Gea makes howler
By Editor Wayne Veysey
Football Insider rates the Manchester United players in their 4-1 win against West Ham in Wednesday’s League Cup quarter-final clash at Old Trafford.
David de Gea 5 – Made a rare blunder when he spilled Dimitri Payet’s long-ranger to allow Ashley Fletcher to pounce and grab an unexpected equaliser.
Antonio Valencia 6 – Defended solidly and used the ball sensibly. Played a key role in the second with his smart backheel to Henrikh Mkhitaryan and his cross layed on the third for Anthony Martial.
Phil Jones 7 – Had the odd panicky moment but was mostly in control.
Marcos Rojo 6 – Does not look a natural centre-back but was generally in the right place at the right time.
Luke Shaw 6 – His latest attempt to prove a point to his manager fell flat as he picked up a knock and was replaced at half-time by Daley Blind.
Michael Carrick 7 – Read the game well and was purposeful in possession.
Ander Herrera 7 – Energetic, disciplined and creative, the best midfielder on display and, increasingly, the best one on the United books.
Anthony Martial 8 – His pace and mobility caused huge problems to the West Ham back line and rediscovered his shooting boots with a slick double. Did enough to suggest he deserves an extended run.
Wayne Rooney 8 – The creative spark behind an inspired United attacking display.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan 9 – Showed great awareness to set up the opening goal for Ibrahimovic with an audacious backheel to set the tone for a display full of craft and creativity. Added his second assist with a clever pass to Martial for the second.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic 7 – The legs might be going but he remains a wonderfully clinical finisher. Slotted in the opener for his 10th goal of the season and added his 11th and second of the game in injury time to crown a fine evening’s work.
SUBS
Daley Blind (for Shaw 28mins) – 6
Bastian Schweinsteiger (for Martial 86mins) – 6
In other Manchester United news, Tottenham are planning to make a January bid for one of Jose Mourinho’s senior players.