Player Ratings: Newcastle United 1-0 Manchester United

Jose Mourinho speaks with Antonio Valencia.

Reuters / Andrew Yates

Manchester United stuttered on their visit to Newcastle after losing 1-0 in Gameweek 27 of the Premier League on Sunday. A goal from Matt Ritchie in the 2nd half handed the hosts a well earned victory.

Here’s how Jose Mourinho’s men fared during the crunch encounter against Rafa Benitez’s side at St James’ Park:

David de Gea: 6

The Spaniard made a superb save to deny Jonjo Shelvey’s effort in the first half. Couldn’t do much for Ritchie’s second half goal.

Antonio Valencia: 4

Handled his defensive responsibilities well, but did not offer much going forward. Made a rash challenge in the 2nd half to get booked.

Chris Smalling: 3

Made a poor tackle on Dwight Gayle just inside the box, but was saved from giving away a penalty after referee decided otherwise. Was culpable for Newcastle’s goal by giving away a cheap free-kick.

Phil Jones: 6

Reacted well after the horror show against Spurs and made some key blocks.

Ashley Young: 5

Misplaced passes at times but put some tempting crosses in the Magpies box.

Nemanja Matic: 6

Looked composed as the game went on and fed a delicious ball to Martial, who was goal-bound.

Paul Pogba: 4

Another poor performance from the Frenchman. Did not get enough in the Newcastle box, besides losing the ball at times. Was substituted in the 2nd half.

Anthony Martial: 4

Had a glorious chance to get his side the lead but failed to go past the keeper. Missed another chance from an open header. Had two goal-bound shots blocked in the 2nd half.

Jesse Lingard: 5

Had one off-target shot saved and remained mostly quiet during the game.

Alexis Sanchez:6

One of the better United players on the pitch, and looked to try various things in creating openings.

Romelu Lukaku:6

Workaholic, and created a brilliant through-ball pass for Sanchez, but on the return fluffed his shot. He also played in Sanchez to create a crucial chance.

SUBSTITUTIONS –

Juan Mata: 5

Gave United a better look through the right after coming on.

Michael Carrick: 6

Made a superb pass to find Martial upfront, was composed on the ball.

Scott McTominay: 5

Did not have much of an impact since coming on.

 

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