Manchester United’s midfielders shone as they defeated Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon. Michael Carrick named an unchanged side from the start with Benjamin Sesko on the bench, a week after his match-winner against Fulham.
Bryan Mbeumo went close when he blazed over from inside the box and Casemiro forced a fine save from Guglielmo Vicario with a fierce strike. Matheus Cunha curled an excellent effort wide from distance and Bruno Fernandes dragged an effort wide from the edge of the box as United continued to turn the screw.
Tottenham had defended reasonably well but were put at a huge disadvantage when captain Cristian Romero was shown a straight red for a reckless foul on Casemiro. It didn't take long for United to make the man advantage count when Mbeumo put them ahead at half-time from a smart corner kick routine.
United continued to dominate after the restart and nearly doubled their lead when Amad Diallo and Cunha both had goals disallowed for offside. Tottenham always looked like they could find a way back into the match but any hopes of a comeback were dashed when Fernandes fired in at the back post to secure the win.
Here is how we rated the United players at Old Trafford.
5. Luke Shaw - 6.5
Another good left-back display. He defended well and linked up well with Mbeumo on the left wing. Forced a decent stop from Vicario. | Getty Images
6. Casemiro - 8
Almost scored a spectacular opener. A combative performance in the heart of the midfield, and made some excellent passes. It is going to be tough to replace him. | Getty Images
7. Kobbie Mainoo - 8
Looked full of confidence. He made some smart passes but also knew when to keep things simple. Excellent awareness to set up the opener. | Getty Images
8. Bruno Fernandes - 7.5
Pulled the strings in his favourite attacking midfield role once again. Went close on a few occasions with efforts from distance. A creative menace with the ball and secured the win with his goal. | Getty Images