Player Ratings: Manchester United 2-0 Derby County
Reuters/Carl Recine
Manchester United notched their second successive victory after leaving it late to seal a 2-0 win against Derby County in the third round of the FA Cup.
Jose Mourinho looked a pleased man in the end, after Derby almost forced a replay. Goals from Jesse Lingard and Romelu Lukaku won the game for United at Old Trafford.
Here’s how Jose’s men fared during the crucial home tie.
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Sergio Romero: 7
Made a good save too see off Marcus Olsson’s on-target header when the score was 0-0. Was called for some more action, but he was there to see the game through.
Victor Lindelof: 6
Not a natural right-back, and therefore, his positioning at times looked a suspect. But he looked composed with the ball.
Chris Smalling: 7
Came back from an injury, but made his presence felt in the centre-back position. Looked in comfort as the game progressed.
Daley Blind: 6
Justified his selection by Jose and came out strong. Showed his composure as he started yet another Cup tie this term.
Luke Shaw: 7
Made some good runs in the opposition’s half, but his final product lacked at times. Made a crucial interception to head out Tom Huddlestone’s on-target shot in the second half.
Ander Herrera: 5
Looked out of place and isolated at times. Had little effect when he barged forward, and also failed to prevent Derby making crucial forward runs.
Paul Pogba: 7
Was United’s most lively player on the pitch. Had a lot of shots from distance at goal, and almost scored from a free-kick, which was superbly kept out by Scott Carson.
Juan Mata: 6
Unlucky to be substituted in the second half. His free-kick was saved by Carson as he tried cutting centrally, but his final product in the crowded Derby box was seen off.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan: 4
One of the weak links in the side. His crossing from a promising position in the first half was a disaster. Lost his back pass that almost saw Derby capitalise.
Jesse Lingard: 8
Saw an early shot on goal deflected over. Scored a screamer from nowhere in the 84th minute.
Marcus Rashford: 5
Lacked finesse in his finishing. Couldn’t find the target after shooting over from open situation. Hit the post with a free header from less than six yards.
SUBSTITUTES –
Romelu Lukaku: 8
His hold-up play, and then racing quickly to find the target, was an example of a proper centre-forward.
Anthony Martial: 7
Did really well to set up Lukaku’s goal. Was livelier on the left-flank.
Marouane Fellaini: 5
No notable impact after coming on in the end.
Written by Rajdeep Saha 
Sports journalist with stints across print, digital and television. Contribution to each medium has been thrilling. Experienced in writing for this passionate game called football. Journalist by choice and passion.