Sheffield United slumped to their second defeat in the space of four days, as they were easily seen off by Manchester United at Old Trafford this evening.
A stunning hat-trick from Anthony Martial was enough to put the Blades to the sword, who once again huffed and puffed but showed little in terms of quality in attacking areas.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – JUNE 24: Paul Pogba of Manchester United in action with John Lundstram of Sheffield United during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Sheffield United at Old Trafford on June 24, 2020 in Manchester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Matthew Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images)
In fairness, the Blades did put in a better performance than at Newcastle. There was a bit more energy two good ten minute spells in the first half gave Unitedites an element of hope.
However, Martial turned home from Marcus Rashford early in the first half before he scored a second just before half-time to put the Blades to the sword.
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The Frenchman then completed his hat-trick with aplomb midway through the second period, dinking the ball nicely over Simon Moore.
It leaves Chris Wilder’s side now looking increasingly unlikely to make a run at Europe. The Blades boss, then, will have plenty to think about heading into Sunday’s FA Cup clash with Arsenal.
With that, here’s site writer Lee Connor’s player ratings from a hard evening at Old Trafford for the Blades.
Simon Moore – 6
Could do little with any of the goals and will be replaced once again by Dean Henderson at the weekend.
George Baldock – 6
Huffed and puffed and got forward well at times but final ball lacking in the end.
Chris Basham – 5
Usual hustle and bustle from United’s number 6 but was caught out twice for Man United’s goals.
Phil Jagielka – 5
Did ok in his second start of the season but was way out of position for United’s second goal.
Jack Robinson – 6
Once again filled in well enough for Jack O’Connell but endured a tough time as the Red Devils attacked down the right.
Enda Stevens – 5
Another poor showing from the Irishman. Seems a shadow of the player he was prior to March.
John Lundstram – 7
Probably United’s best player on the night. Showed energy and drive and did his best against a brilliant midfield.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – JUNE 24: Luke Shaw of Manchester United battles for possession with John Lundstram of Sheffield United during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Sheffield United at Old Trafford on June 24, 2020 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Oli Norwood – 5
Looks a shadow of the player he was before lockdown and was taken off at half-time.
John Fleck – 5
Looks short of fitness and seemed lost in the midfield against Pogba and Fernandes.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – JUNE 24: John Fleck of Sheffield United battles for possession with Aaron Wan-Bissaka of Manchester United during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Sheffield United at Old Trafford on June 24, 2020 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
David McGoldrick – 7
Did well in the first half holding the ball and dropping deep but faded in the second. Still, one of the better players.
Lys Mousset – 6
Looked a threat before being injured. A real shame for the Frenchman on his return to the starting line up.
