In the final preseason game before things kick off against Leeds, Manchester United hosted Everton and sent them packing back to Merseyside with four goals put past them.
Murder MAse
After a couple of slightly shaky games in preseason so far, he showed us exactly what he is capable of with an opening goal in the first 8 minutes. Following up on a long ball from Victor Lindelöf, Mason’s relentless pressing lead to capitalising on a mistake from Jordan Pickford. His finish was clinical as ever and got The Red Devils off to a dream start. A start which got the 50,000 fans in Old Trafford roaring.
Solid at the Back
It was so good to see a settled defense and back four for the first time in a while. Of course, with the signing of Raphael Varane we will most likely be seeing a different defensive line-up to that which we saw against Everton. But that might not be for a few games. So in that sense it is good to know that our defensive situation will be reasonably settled for the opening fixture against Leeds and beyond.
Maguire dominant
United’s second goal came from quite a familiar route. A Luke Shaw corner was beautifully floated into the box. Maguire sensed the opportunity and was dominant in the air. A beautiful finish from the United skipper saw the ball rocket into the top corner. Leaving Pickford no chance to get to the ball. Overall this was a solid performance back for the English centre-back. It was great to see him put in a stellar performance back at Old Trafford.
Bruno is back
The third United goal was also something we as fans are not unfamiliar to seeing. A free kick just outside the box. Bruno banging it straight into the top corner. Job done! It was fantastic to see Bruno doing what he does best. The fans in Old Trafford went crazy when this happened and that was a really special goal.
Midfield Questions
This is one area that we still have doubts about. We saw Donny van de Beek line up alongside Nemanja Matic behind Bruno. And to be honest, this set up didn’t look to bad at all. But we all know this isn’t sustainable. Matic is the issue here, I really don’t think he can be relied on too heavily. And then we all know what the situation is with Fred and McTominay. As much as we looked okay in the midfield against Everton there are still serious question marks over this area going forward.