Player Ratings: Southampton vs Manchester United
David De Gea(7): The Spaniard has been incredible in recent weeks and continued his fine form with two classy saves in the second half.
Antonio Valencia (5.5): Valencia has looked more and more comfortable at right-back but was given a torrid time by Mane in the first half.Was reluctant to get forward on many occasions and wasn’t an effective outlet.
Paddy McNair(5): Louis van Gaal said that the young defender was hauled off before halftime as he had ‘no confidence.’ Make three big errors which thankfully weren’t punished.
Chris Smalling(N/A): Another injury for another defender and just as Smalling was coming into form,he has a suspected muscle tear.
Marcos Rojo(6): Gave the ball away far too many times at the back and was often too casual. Looks far more comfortable in a back four.
Ashley Young(7): While guilty of giving the ball away as well.Young made some crucial interventions while providing a decent threat down the left flank. He was clearly targeted by Southampton as a weak link but adapted well, although,he must improve his positional play.
Michael Carrick(6): Not his usual self for much of the first half and was drafted in as a centre back after Herrera was brought on.
Marouane Fellaini(4.5): His worst performance of the season. Lost his crucial battle with Wanyama and his error led directly to a Southampton goal. Was tidier after the break but still didn’t affect the game. Hopefully, it’s a one off as the Belgian has been impressive this campaign.
Juan Mata(5): Yet another anonymous performance from the playmaker. When he isn’t scoring Mata rarely can influence the course of play. Another player who seems unable to adapt to the 3-5-2.
Wayne Rooney(6): More evidence that the captain’s days as a striker are numbered,especially in a partnership. Found it difficult to dictate play was visibly frustrated. Provided an excellent assist with a curling free-kick for the winner.
Robin van Persie(8): Accepted his early Christmas present from Fonte with confidence and showed his 2013 form in the second half. His build-up play was excellent and his movement for his second goal was terrific. Lead from the front and was deservedly the man of the match.
Ander Herrera(6): Improved the quality of passing somewhat but struggled initially with the pressing of the home side.
Jonny Evans(5.5): Not the best of returns for the Northern Irishman as he failed to command the defence and was continuously sloppy. Clearly lacking match fitness
Darren Fletcher(N/A): Made a late cameo to see off the game.
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