Manchester United’s midfielders shone as they defeated Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon. Michael Carrick named an unchanged side from the start with Benjamin Sesko on the bench, a week after his match-winner against Fulham.
Bryan Mbeumo went close when he blazed over from inside the box and Casemiro forced a fine save from Guglielmo Vicario with a fierce strike. Matheus Cunha curled an excellent effort wide from distance and Bruno Fernandes dragged an effort wide from the edge of the box as United continued to turn the screw.
Tottenham had defended reasonably well but were put at a huge disadvantage when captain Cristian Romero was shown a straight red for a reckless foul on Casemiro. It didn't take long for United to make the man advantage count when Mbeumo put them ahead at half-time from a smart corner kick routine.
United continued to dominate after the restart and nearly doubled their lead when Amad Diallo and Cunha both had goals disallowed for offside. Tottenham always looked like they could find a way back into the match but any hopes of a comeback were dashed when Fernandes fired in at the back post to secure the win.
Here is how we rated the United players at Old Trafford.
A rare mistake early on when he passed the ball straight to an opponent. Otherwise, another calm day at the office for him.
1. Senne Lammens - 6
A rare mistake early on when he passed the ball straight to an opponent. Otherwise, another calm day at the office for him. | Getty Images
The type of no-nonsense defensive performance we have come to expect under Carrick. A rock at the back once again.
2. Harry Maguire - 6.5
The type of no-nonsense defensive performance we have come to expect under Carrick. A rock at the back once again. | Getty Images
Fantastic at the back with both his defensive work and distribution. He started attacks just as well as he ended them. It's a huge boost to have him back.
3. Lisandro Martinez - 7
Fantastic at the back with both his defensive work and distribution. He started attacks just as well as he ended them. It's a huge boost to have him back. | Getty Images
A good display at right-back. He always made himself available for a pass and contributed to the attacking play. Sent a good effort at goal and set-up the second.
4. Diogo Dalot - 7
A good display at right-back. He always made himself available for a pass and contributed to the attacking play. Sent a good effort at goal and set-up the second. | Getty Images