Greenwood 7/10, De Gea 4/10 but Man United’s unbeaten run going

Manchester United had the feelgood factor going into their game against Everton, following victories over Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City, as well as the thrashing of AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League.

However, a Victor Lindelof own goal put the visitors in the ascendancy, though there was a degree of controversy due to the pressure Dominic Calvert-Lewin put David de Gea under.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side were able to extend their undefeated run to five in all competitions though, thanks to substitute Mason Greenwood‘s strike from the edge of the box in the 78th minute.

Positives

There were some brilliant through-balls being played from United’s centre-backs and holding-midfielders in the early stages, creating chances for those running behind. United started both halves well, which indicates they are able to put pressure on their opposition and get onto the front foot.

Negatives

United failed to capitalise when they were on top early in the match, as they didn’t really test Jordan Pickford when they got their chances. It will be worrying how quickly their performance levels regressed in the first half.

Manager Rating

7 – Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side started the first half well and there is very little he could have done to prevent the team dropping off as it wore on. Whatever he said at half-time did have an impact, as there was a lift once again. When they started to run out of ideas, he changed the shape, with his substitute, Greenwood, going on to get the equaliser.

Player ratings (1-10; 10 = best, players introduced after 70 minutes get no rating)

GK David de Gea, 4 — Picked up a knock after two minutes when he collided with the post, but shook it off. There was debate about whether Everton‘s opener should have stood, but he was far too weak in the challenge and has to be at fault.

DF Aaron Wan-Bissaka, 7 — Looked very comfortable both on the ball and when defending. It is impressive how often he is able to force the opposition to do what he wants them to when they are in possession. The former Crystal Palace man’s attacking credentials have been questioned, but he put some good crosses.

DF Victor Lindelof, 4 — He was very unlucky with the goal, as De Gea’s flap gave him pretty much no chance to react. The Sweden international struggled to deal with Dominic Calvert-Lewin at times and was booked for a foul on the Everton frontman. His frustration will have grown even further when his strike went just over the bar.

DF Harry Maguire, 6 — Made some effective interventions throughout the game and carried the ball out from the back well at times. Could have done with some more movement ahead of him at points.

DF Luke Shaw, 5 — Saw off competition from Ashley Young and Brandon Williams to get the start, but Shaw was largely unconvincing during the first half. He was far better during the second and tested Pickford with a good effort.

MF Scott McTominay, 7 — He played a superb pass to give Dan James a chance in the first half an hour. Was one of the few players who didn’t seem to shy away at all while Everton were on top.

MF Fred, 5 — Was full of energy, putting in some good defensive work and made an effort to get involved in the attacking phase. However, his quality on the ball was found lacking at times when it mattered.

MF Jesse Lingard, 5 — Came close to scoring after less than a minute, which was his only real impact on the game. Had a few bright moments but was largely anonymous. Was eventually replaced by Mason Greenwood with 25 minutes remaining.

FW Daniel James, 6 — James was invisible for almost the entirety of the first half, but he did get into it a lot more during the second period. Cut inside and played the ball to Greenwood for a smart assist.

FW Marcus Rashford, 5 – He did make some good runs, but Rashford found it hard to make a regular impact on proceedings. Hit the side netting with his biggest opportunity of the match.

FW Anthony Martial, 4 – Provided some neat pieces of play, but the Frenchman was just unable to unlock the Everton defence. He often lacked thoughtful movement, making himself easier to defend against.

Substitutions

FW Mason Greenwood, 7 — Replaced Lingard in the 65th minute and got the equaliser with a brilliant strike into the bottom corner from the edge of the box.

MF Juan Mata, N/R – Replaced Dan James in the 85th minute and provided some near pieces of play.