Man Utd 2-0 Brighton: Player Ratings As Rangnick’s Side Finally Manage To Defend A Lead

Manchester United climb back into the top four with a 2-0 win over ten-man Brighton and Hove Albion.

Brighton started the game as if they were the home side, dictating the opening 45 minutes, while United sat back to absorb the pressure.

After the break, the Red Devils took control of the affairs, with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring his first goal of the year. Seconds later, Lewis Dunk was sent off for denying Anthony Elanga an obvious goalscoring opportunity. But the Old Trafford faithful had to wait until the last minute Bruno Fernandes goal for a sigh of relief.

The ratings for the United players from a game of two halves:

David de Gea –  7.0

His stunning save from Jakub Moder’s header kept the score goalless in the first-half.

Diogo Dalot – 6.5

Another good defensive display from the Portuguese youngster.

Victor Lindelof – 6.5

Didn’t lack any composure despite replacing Raphael Varane late on.

Harry Maguire – 6.0

Did well to ensure a clean sheet. But might not be a guaranteed starter alongside Varane in the coming games, now that Lindelof has returned.

Luke Shaw – 5.5

Lacked urgency and struggled against Tariq Lamptey in the second half.

 

Scott McTominay – 5.0

Outplayed by Yves Bissouma, who seemed like the only midfielder capable of playing in the number six position during the game.

Fred – 4.5

Was short of ideas in possession. Rusty.

Bruno Fernandes –  7.5

If his finishing was as good as his delivery, he would’ve managed at least a brace tonight.

 

Anthony Elanga – 6.5

His energy and desire to make something happen was impressive, and even resulted in Brighton going a man down.

Cristiano Ronaldo – 7.5

Ended his goal drought with a world class finish. Robert Sanchez denied him a second with an excellent save.

Jadon Sancho – 7.0

Missed a very good chance early on, but was still the most lively player on the pitch. Completed four dribbles in the first half.

 

Substitutes:

Paul Pogba – 7.5

Did his job perfectly off the bench. Kept the possession, played some smart balls, and got himself an assist by quickly starting the counter-attack for Fernandes’ goal.

Marcus Rashford – N/A

Alex Telles – N/A