Fri. Oct 4th, 2024
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MANCHESTER UNITED were given a frosty reception as they lost 1-0 at Newcastle on a freezing night.

The Red Devils were second-best all over the pitch as they struggled to make an impression at St James’ Park.

Marcus Rashford failed to impress as Man Utd lost 1-0 at Newcastle3

Marcus Rashford failed to impress as Man Utd lost 1-0 at NewcastleCredit: EPA

Erik ten Hag’s tactics did not go to plan as United failed to click into the gear.

But who was the Red Devils’ best performer on the night?

And did anyone have a game to forget?

Here, SunSport’s Oscar Paul delivers his United player ratings…

ANDRE ONANA – 5

The dodgy keeper suffered dog’s abuse all night from Newcastle fans but escaped St James’ Park without adding to his catalogue of howlers.

Hopelessly flapped at the first corner and was erratic with his feet but made a good early save to deny Miguel Almiron.

Rooted to spot as Kieran Trippier’s free-kick rattled the bar and could not do much for Anthony Gordon’s goal. 

AARON WAN-BISSAKA – 5

With Marcus Rashford offering little protection the right-back was given a torrid time by Tino Livramento and Gordon. Lost Gordon at back post for Newcastle’s opener.

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HARRY MAGUIRE – 6

Held firm under Newcastle’s early dominance with some big blocks and headers. Was nowhere to be seen however when Kieran Trippier’s low cross found Gordon.

LUKE SHAW – 6

In at centre-back, Shaw was solid alongside Harry Maguire in unfamiliar surroundings.

Made some crucial interceptions and did not look out of place.

DIOGO DALOT – 5

Couldn’t keep a handle on Kieran Trippier and Miguel Almiron. Got away with a shocking clearance early on and failed to test Newcastle in attack.

SCOTT McTOMINAY – 5

Didn’t offer anything going forward with Man United non-existent as an attacking force. Overpowered by Toon’s midfield. 

Harry Maguire was one of United's better performers3

Harry Maguire was one of United’s better performersCredit: Getty

KOBBIE MAINOO – 5

No lack of effort but the youngster struggled to make an impact and was outshone by fellow teen Lewis Miley.

MARCUS RASHFORD – 3

Continued terrible form with another stinker. Couldn’t get into the game from right wing and looked disinterested. Worrying display again. 

BRUNO FERNANDES – 5

Opened up Newcastle a couple of times with some nice passes early on but his influence quickly waned.

Failed to speak his side into life when they desperately needed someone to step up.

ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5

Manchester United’s most attacking dangerous outlet – though that’s hardly saying much. 

Had an early shot saved by Nick Pope but was quieter as game wore on.

Anthony Martial struggled to lead from the front3

Anthony Martial struggled to lead from the frontCredit: EPA

ANTHONY MARTIAL – 3

Anonymous. Barely had a kick, provided no threat in behind and did not press. Hooked after an hour.

SUBS: 

RASMUS HOJLUND (On for Martial, 61) – 5

Put himself about compared to Martial but Newcastle’s defence coped comfortably.

ANTONY (On for Rashford, 61) – 5

The Red Devils needed a game-changer from the bench….and Antony was most certainly not it. Thought he bagged equaliser but his effort deflected off an offside Maguire

SOFYAN AMRABAT (On for Mainoo, 80) – 5

The defensive midfielder could not turn the tide.

SERGIO REGUILON  (On for Wan-Bissaka, 80) – 5

Had a goal-bound volley brilliantly blocked.

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