Man City ran out 1-0 winners against Sheffield United in hard-fought affair at Bramall Lane last night.
Both sides were well up for the battle and it became a physical battle throughout rather than a game filled with quality.
SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – JANUARY 21: Sergio Aguero of Manchester City celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Sheffield United and Manchester City at Bramall Lane on January 21, 2020 in Sheffield, United Kingdom. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
That’s not to say moments of quality were missing, however. Dean Henderson pulled off a number of fine saves for the Blades and saved a penalty from Gabriel Jesus in the opening 45.
And it was a moment of world-class quality that won the game, too. Kevin De Bruyne’s eye of the needle pass setting Sergio Aguero up for the winner in front of the City fans.
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It was a good game on the whole, though. The Blades had their moments and twice went close through Lys Mousset then Oli McBurnie.
The Blades remain seventh having played City and Liverpool twice now. Crucially, they have a positive goal difference heading into the final months of the campaign.
Here, then, are our Sheffield United player ratings from a tough 1-0 loss against Man City.
Dean Henderson – 9 (MOTM)
As good a goalkeeping display as you’re likely to see at Bramall Lane all season. His save from Sterling was truly world-class and Gareth Southgate has to be considering giving Henderson his chance soon.
SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – JANUARY 21: Gabriel Jesus of Manchester City has a penalty saved by Dean Henderson of Sheffield United during the Premier League match between Sheffield United and Manchester City at Bramall Lane on January 21, 2020 in Sheffield, United Kingdom. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
George Baldock – 7
Another excellent display from Baldock who dealt well with the threat of Sterling throughout the game.
Chris Basham – 6
Rash tackle gave the penalty away but was his dependable self in the main.
John Egan – 7
Barely put a foot wrong and won countless headers and tackles to prevent City getting into their stride.
Jack O’Connell – 7
A couple of bits of superb defending once again showed his worth. Another who England must surely be looking at.
Oli Norwood – 6
Norwood was pretty quiet in fairness as City pinned him in the middle. Still, worked hard and remains integral.
Mo Besic – 7
A shocking early challenge on Laporte threatened to ruin his night but he kept composed and showed some nice touches.
John Fleck – 8
Another masterful display. It’s easy to see why Arsenal are reportedly interesting in landing the Scot.
Oli McBurnie – 8
Superb display from the big striker who seems to be getting better by the week. Unlucky not to score and was a real nuisance for Otamendi all night.
SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – JANUARY 21: Oliver McBurnie of Sheffield United misses a chance on goal during the Premier League match between Sheffield United and Manchester City at Bramall Lane on January 21, 2020 in Sheffield, United Kingdom. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)
Sharp – 7
Worked tirelessly at the top of the pitch and some of his hold up play was top drawer.
Subs
Lys Mousset – 6
Should have laid of for Fleck to score but proved a threat when introduced.
Lundstram/Robinson – NA
Our view
This was a good performance from the Blades and one the fans can be proud of.
They’ve gone toe to toe with one of the best sides in world football. But for a moment of magic, they might have taken a point, too.
Chris Wilder will be happy with how things went and will be looking for his side to kick on in February now.
