Fulham vs Manchester United Summary
Manchester United continue their excellent away record with a 2-1 win against Fulham. A perfect way to get back to winning ways following a stalemate at Anfield on Sunday. After Leicester and Manchester City both moved to first after their respective 2-0 wins, United had to win to return to the top. Manchester United started conventionally sluggishly and poor decision-making from Eric Bailly and Aaron Wan-Bissaka ended in a goal for Fulham. A sublime pickout by Anguissa connected with Lookman and a superb finish opened the scoring.
United reacted quicker and got playing properly as Bruno Fernandes hit the post with a long range effort. Almost immediately he shook off the disappointment and put in a super cross and Cavani capitalised on his former teammate’s error. Slotting his fifth United goal and a crucial one too. Areola made some excellent saves during the match but could not deny the winner. A beautiful strike from Paul Pogba sealed the match in the 65th minute. A curling left footed effort from the Frenchman won the game. It’s the second time a worldie from Pogba has taken United to first place this season.
United have a break from the league but an equally crucial FA Cup tie against Liverpool at Old Trafford. They then host Sheffield United midweek before another away trip to an in-form Arsenal. Only wins will do in the hunt for silverware and a tight title race and United have the perfect momentum to bring into these matches.
Fulham vs Manchester United Player Ratings
David de Gea 7.5/10
Some big saves and commanding in the area. Nothing he could do about the goal.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka 7/10
I would argue he is at fault for the goal but Ole said he doesn’t play an offiside trap and so it is more the fault of the player who failed to track Lookman. Some excellent crosses in the game and a brilliant goal saving challenge at the death. Grew into the game but I do think he needs strong competition.
Eric Bailly 7/10
At fault for the goal as he failed to track the run but had a brilliant game other than that. Perhaps a bit rusty after missing out against Liverpool but I can see him starting at the weekend if Lindelof is still injured.
Harry Maguire 7/10
Solid game. Would have had an eight or more but missed a glorious chance in the first half. He has to sort this part of his game out as it is costing United chances.
Luke Shaw 8.5/10
Another fabulous game. Truly turned a corner. I do hope Telles starts either against Liverpool or Sheffield United and gives Shaw a well-deserved rest.
Fred 8/10
A few questions were raised as Fred was the only DM this match but he performed admirably. Lost Anguissa for the goal but his overall distribution and energy boosted United’s attack and kept Fulham at bay.
Paul Pogba 9/10
World class performance. Again! This is the Paul Pogba we know and love and he is winning United games with his performances. Let alone the goals! I have a feeling if United can keep this up, Pogba could sign a new deal but that’s still a big ask half way through the season.
Bruno Fernandes 8/10
Another great game despite drawing a fourth blank in a row. He shows how much he offers United even without his goals and assists as he could have had a brace and two assists if not for Areola and the post.
Mason Greenwood 6.5/10
Some good crosses but needs to take games by the scruff of the neck. I don’t doubt he will bounce back as he is only 19 but is desperately in need of a goal regardless.
Anthony Martial 6.5/10
Clearly was not on the same wavelength as Shaw but had some decent moments in the game. He is clearly wanting to play as the number nine, something he hasn’t been able to do since the start of the month. He is another one who needs a goal and needs to step up with the competition around him.
Edinson Cavani 8.5/10
Classic number nine performance. Great game and could have had a couple of goals if not for Areola. Offering United so much and highlighted by winning the ball back in Fulham’s final third. Such a good player!
Substitutes:
Marcus Rashford 6.5/10
Decent cameo. Some darting runs.
Scott McTominay 7/10
Solid appearance. I expect him to start on Sunday.
Nemanja Matic N/A
Man of the Match: Paul Pogba
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 7.5/10
Solid formation as Fred performed very well and Rashford needed a break. Tactics clearly were to flex attacking prowess and it showed especially in the second half. I think he will be happy with the performance but would have hoped for a more convincing scoreline. He will set up a side to beat Liverpool in the FA Cup and make a statement against a very out of form team. United have to win this game because getting knocked out of two domestic tournaments is a travesty.
