Manchester United vs Leicester Summary
Manchester United made it three wins in a row, beating Leicester 1-0 at the King Power Stadium. Jadon Sancho got the only goal of the game, netting his second goal of the season. The Reds held on to win away from home, keeping yet another clean sheet.
Erik ten Hag named the same side, which won away at Southampton, with many surprised that Casemiro and Ronaldo weren’t starting. However, the opening 20 minutes was enough evidence to show that the manager had got it spot on once again. United controlled the tempo of proceedings and pressed Leicester into submission.
The first real chance of the game fell to Eriksen. The Dane found himself with time in the box and his accurate effort, whistled just wide of the post. Following some superb play on the right flank, the Red Devils opened the scoring. Dalot found Fernandes in space, who sent a delightful through ball into the direction of Rashford.
Rashford, 24, set up Sancho, who went past the keeper and slotted into the empty net. Ten Hag’s men were ahead and they throughly deserved this lead. The hosts did have some chances, however they were limited to long-range efforts. Dewsbury-Hall and James Maddison both tested de Gea from range, but the Spaniard came out on top.
Ten Hag said after the game that his side need to be more ruthless in front of goal and this was particularly evident during the second half. United had several dangerous counter attacks and should have extended their lead. Ronaldo’s acrobatic effort went just wide of the target and Evans denied Eriksen from a simple tap in.
The full time whistle went and the Reds had won on the road for the second game in a row.
Manchester United vs Leicester Player Ratings
David de Gea 7/10
Dealt with Maddison’s and Dewsbury-Hall’s long range efforts with ease. A much more commanding and confident performance from United’s number one.
Diogo Dalot 8/10
Another superb outing from the Portuguese fullback. Defended brilliantly against Barnes and was even better in the final third. Played his part in the goal and was a threat throughout. Yet another man of the match performance.
Raphael Varane 8/10
Another contender for man of the match. Was cool and calm throughout the contest and defended elegantly. A magnificent performance from the Frenchman.
Lisandro Martinez 8/10
Won his fierce duel with Jamie Vardy. Read the game expertly and made numerous crucial interceptions. The Argentine is becoming a real fan favourite.
Tyrell Malacia 7/10
Like the rest of the defensive unit, he was sharp and alert to everything. Progressed the ball nicely and combined well in the final third. Harshly booked.
Scott McTominay 7/10
An efficient performance from the Scotland international. Kept it simple and progressed the ball much more effectively. Stood his ground and won his duels. A significantly better display.
Christian Eriksen 7/10
He is a joy to watch when the ball is at his feet. Adds an element of control and composure to United’s play. Unlucky to not get on the scoresheet.
Bruno Fernandes 8/10
A much more well-rounded performance from the skipper. Less wasteful in possession and an impressive work rate throughout. Played a significant role in the goal and created numerous opportunities in the second half.
Anthony Elanga 6/10
It is clear to see why Ten Hag trusts the youngster. His work rate and off the ball ability is extremely impressive. Added energy to the front-line and combined well with Rashford. Needs to improve on his end-product.
Marcus Rashford 7/10
One of his best performances as a number nine. Combined well with the frontline and constantly pressed the Leicester backline. Grabbed the all-important assist. Like Bruno, his work rate throughout the contest was impressive.
Jadon Sancho 7/10
Calm and composed in front of goal, when put one on one with Ward. Tidy in possession and growing in confidence in each match. Perhaps needs to work on his fitness, as he has been replaced on the hour mark on multiple occasions this season.
Subs
Casemiro 6/10
Added more robustness and calmness to the midfield at a time where the hosts were on top.
Cristiano Ronaldo 6/10
Looked dangerous and lively in transition and could have had a goal or two.
Fred 6/10
Came on in the dying stages to secure the win-did exactly that.
Manager Erik ten Hag 8/10
Named an unchanged side and although this cast some eyebrows, his plan worked a treat. United controlled the game and look more a more like a ten Hag side. His changes came at the right time and disrupted Leicester’s momentum in the second half.
