Goalkeeper & Defence
David de Gea was found in inspired form last night, dealing with the concerted pressure mounted on his goal by Everton to make a string of game changing saves. If it wasn't for his heroics, United may well have been left staring at a much heavier defeat.
Michael Carrick and
Antonio Valencia were drafted into a makeshift defence in the absence of Rio Ferdinand and in favour of Rafael. This decision backfired as United looked awkward and uneasy at the back, with Everton almost allowed to shoot at will at times. In spite of
Evra and the returning
Nemanja Vidic providing some solidarity at the back, this was by no means a full strength defence - with regulars Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans all missing - and Carrick looked out of place, losing his marked man from a set piece to concede the goal as the Toffee's were able to exploit the unorthodox back four far too easily. Everton peppered United's goal with 16 efforts and if it hadn't have been for De Gea making a number of fine saves, United's defence could so easily have conceded three by half time.
Star Man at the back: David de Gea - Kept the Reds in it.
Villain: Michael Carrick - Lost Fellaini with some lackluster marking during a corner to concede the killer goal.