Manchester United 1-0 Aston Villa Player Ratings: Fernandes and Lindelof impress

Manchester United tightened their grip on fourth place in the Premier League with a resilient 1-0 win over Aston Villa.

Unai Emery’s men headed into the game at Old Trafford on the back of a 10-game winning run and with an impressive record of scoring in every game since the Spaniard’s appointment. Both changed today in front of a rousing home crowd.

Marcus Rashford’s run caught Villa’s high line out before forcing a save from Emi Martinez. The rebound fell to Bruno Fernandes, who finished home to give United a lead. After the goal, United’s backline shielded by Casemiro displayed incredible resilience to keep a clean sheet and win all three points.

Here’s how Manchester United players fared in the crucial win

David de Gea – 6

Another clean sheet for the Spaniard, who’s leading the race for the Premier League Golden Glove with 15. But in this game, he didn’t have to do much to earn the clean sheet, with United’s backline only allowing one shot on target from Villa forwards.

Diogo Dalot -7

Didn’t let Aaron Wan-Bissaka‘s absence be felt with a solid defensive display. Played some good passes as well.

Victor Lindelof – 9

Made an impressive goal-line clearance and kept the otherwise excellent Ollie Watkins in control. Man of the Match.

Luke Shaw – 8

At this point Ten Hag needs to look for a new left-back and let Shaw challenge Martinez. More at home at the heart of defence.

Tyrell Malacia – 6

Defensively brilliant, but needs to offer more with the ball.

Casemiro – 8

Bossed the midfield with his tackles, recoveries, and progression.

Bruno Fernandes – 8

Doesn’t matter where he plays, the Portuguese always delivers! A goal was just a cherry on top of a complete display.

Marcel Sabitzer – 6

Was everywhere on the pitch. But his decision-making in possession wasn’t as impressive as his work ethic.

Christian Eriksen – 5

Seems to always struggle in games where there are more than usual physical battles.

Jadon Sancho – 5

Did a better job at defending against Ashley Young than actually troubling the veteran full-back at the other end.

Marcus Rashford – 7

Got an early chance to rattle the net but his weak attempt was comfortably saved by Martinez. His next effort was better, leading to the rebound for Fernandes’ finishing.

Substitutes 

Fred – 6, Antony – 5, Anthony Martial – N/A, Harry Maguire – N/A