Matty Longstaff’s Premier League debut was one to remember for Newcastle United as the 19-year-old scored the only goal of the game against Manchester United at St James’ Park on Sunday. But it was another loss for Ole Gunnar Solskaer as his Red Devils sit in 12th position on the Premier League table with only nine points after eight games.
In a disappointing trip to Newcastle, these are the Manchester United player ratings:
David de Gea – 5
That Spaniard did not have much to do in the United goal as he had Matty Longstaff’s shot that cannoned off the crossbar pretty much covered. Could do nothing much about Sean Longstaff’s goal.
Diogo Dalot – 4
Provided a threatening cross that almost resulted in an own goal from Newcastle United but was targeted by winger Allan Saint-Maximin. Unfortunately, he picked up an injury and needed to be substituted.
Axel Tuanzebe – 7
It was the youngster’s first Premier League start at center-back and he was probably the best United player on the pitch. Used the ball well in possession and read the danger expertly but then was unnecessarily moved by Solskjaer.
Harry Maguire – 5
Recovered well to slide in and deny Miguel Almiron but missed an easy opportunity at the other end of the pitch which he should have converted from only four yards out.
Ashley Young – 4
He whipped in a great corner that Maguire should have tucked home and he tried his best to make things happen despite playing in a defensive position but was not very sharp when Newcastle was on the attack.
Scott McTominay – 3
Not effective at all in the center of the park and wasn’t able to make things happen. Solskjaer was often asking him to take up deeper positions to provide support for the defense due to his lack of creativity.
Fred – 2
Another awful performance from the Brazilian who seems to be another liability for Solskjaer but it might be because he has not been deserving of a starting berth. He looked confused and dazed for the majority of the game.
Andreas Pereira – 3
Managed only one shot on target but mainly playing on the right-wing clearly indicated that it is not a position for the young midfielder.
Juan Mata – 4
The Spanish playmaker usually found himself swamped by the Newcastle press and therefore he could not really get into the game. His own players were finding it difficult to pass the ball to him on certain occasions.
Daniel James – 4
The Welsh winger tried his best to get involved but never got going and looked slightly lethargic in the attack. Inconsistency is what will worry the United faithful.
Marcus Rashford – 2
Invisible throughout the game and the 21-year-old barely managed to create a spark in the attacking third by leading the line for United. The young English forward needs to start finding the back of the net on a regular basis.
