Manchester United returned to winning ways against Cardiff on Tuesday night as fan favourite Ole Gunnar Solskjaer came back to town. Solskjaer is a cult figure at Old Trafford and both sets of fans sang his name throughout, but the former Red Devils striker couldn't sink his former team. An early goal from Robin van Persie - back from a long lay-off and named in David Moyes's side for the first time this year - and a second from Ashley Young in the second half sealed the contest. Van Persie's goal was predatory, a close-ranged nod-in after Antonio Valencia's header against the bar sent the ball his way, while Young's was sublime, a long-range bottom corner finish. And Juan Mata made a fine debut, helping to create the first goal and missing a few chances to score himself late on, substituted to a standing ovation near the end. Cardiff too played their part, Marshall making a number of excellent saves while Fraizer Campbell and Craig Noone looked to hit the home side on the counter attack. But how did the players from each side rate? Here, we analyse last night's performances and bring to you the Man United and Cardiff player ratings.
Joseph is an accredited football journalist and has interviewed nearly all of the current 20 Barclay's Premier League managers. He is also a correspondent for Bleacher Report and has written for Caught Offside and Give Me Football.
