Ander Herrera in poor form
It was a surprise to see Louis van Gaal abandon his policy of selecting two defensive midfielders and choosing Ander Herrera in his starting lineup against Midtyjlland.
However, the Spaniard’s performance will have done little to cause his manager to alter his selection plans, as the ex-Bilbao midfielder struggled to influence the tie.
Herrera was also responsible for Midtyjlland’s equalising goal, as he was dispossessed and then failed to retrieve the ball from goalscorer Sisto.
As one of United’s best performers last season, it’s a real shame to see Herrera’s recent struggles. Whatever the reason is behind that, it’s vital he gets back to his best if the Reds are to end the season on a high note.
Better display from Memphis
There were very few positives from this game for United, perhaps none at all from some fans’ perspective.
However, in comparison to recent showings, this was, at least, a much more encouraging display from Memphis Depay, who did well to score the Reds’ goal.
The Dutchman had to adjust his body in the box and poke the ball home from an awkward position, and he deserves, at least, some credit for that. He also struck a good free-kick which had to be parried away by the opposition ‘keeper.
Memphis was also a threat with his dribbling on the left flank and put some decent crosses in, including one from which Juan Mata should have scored, with the Spaniard instead heading wide early in the second half.
United's defence has worsened
Whilst its important to acknowledge that United were without several senior defenders for this game, and forced to name youth products Donald Love and Paddy McNair in the starting XI, there still seemed to be little understanding between the Reds’ back four.
Perhaps that is down to the lack of game time Love, McNair, Chris Smalling and Daley Blind have had together. Regardless, though, there were a few occasions when United looked like they would concede against an ordinary Midtyjlland outfit.
Most notably, the Danish outfit ran clean through on goal just before United’s first-half goal, with none of United’s defenders close to dealing with the situation. The Reds somehow escaped without conceding.
The Reds are in an unfortunate injury situation but the current back four is a complete contrast to the defence which started the season so strongly.
Romero shows he is a capable back-up
United’s worries began before kick-off as David de Gea was injured in the pre-match preparations, but their concerns would have been better placed in other areas of the field.
Sergio Romero, who hadn’t played since October, put in a fine display for the Reds in a loss which could’ve been more significant if it wasn’t for the Argentine.
The former Sampdoria ‘keeper pulled off several excellent saves, including one from a second-half header which De Gea himself would have been proud of.
If De Gea’s injury keeps him out for a couple of matches, United will at least know they have capable hands available in Romero, at least judging by this impressive display.
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