Player Ratings: Crystal Palace 1-3 Manchester United
Reuters/Lee Smith
Manchester United’s superb away form continued under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as the Premier League giants overcame a tricky Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
Romelu Lukaku scored a goal in either half to give United a 2-0 lead. Palace replied through Joel Ward after a superb cross from Jeffrey Schlupp, who found space on the left of the box. The hosts grew in confidence and troubled United consistently. The Red Devils then got a third with Ashley Young finding the net.
Here are the player ratings of Solskjaer’s side from a fascinating away tie:
David de Gea: 6.5
The Spaniard was rarely troubled in the first half. Was more in action in the second.
Ashley Young: 7.5
The veteran looked pretty composed and handled the threats of Wilfried Zaha well on the right. But he failed to mark Schlupp. Young made parity with United’s third goal.
Chris Smalling: 7
His positioning was smart at times and was solid on the ball when needed.
Victor Lindelof: 8
The Swede was sturdy and grew in confidence. He made an assist for Lukaku as well.
Luke Shaw: 8
He had a terrific first half and made a brilliant assist for Lukaku. The Englishman looked confident and strong.
Scott McTominay: 7
He looked disciplined and linked well with the defenders to offer them the protection.
Fred: 5
Started the game on a poor note and his passes deserted him. Looked better in the second half.
Paul Pogba: 7
The Frenchman should have scored with a header from open yard, but missed. Made the assist for Young.
Diago Dalot: 5.5
Offered decent width and pace, but the final delivery eluded him.
Alexis Sanchez: 4.5
The Chilean had a poor outing yet again. Failed to find the final pass and lost the ball. Saw a header straight to Palace goalie.
Romelu Lukaku: 8.5
Was at his best and got two crucial goals that will aid his confidence. His strikes for both goals were fierce.
SUBSTITUTIONS
Marcus Rashford: 5
Didn’t have much to do after coming on for the final 15 minutes.
Eric Bailly: 6
Was brought in to add more steel in defence. Saw the game out.
James Garner: N/A
The 17-year-old came on too late to have any effect.