Disciplined Manchester United earn point at Stamford Bridge with a good defensive performance away from home.
Disciplined Manchester United Earn Point at Stamford Bridge
Brave Team Selection From Carrick
Eyebrows were raised when everybody found out Cristiano Ronaldo was not starting at the Bridge. Carrick opted for three midfielders in the middle of the park with defensive duties, as opposed to the double pivot United usually deploy. Nemanja Matic, Fred and Scott Mctominay operated in the midfield and provided a solid base for the team. They were compact and Chelsea struggled to bypass the midfield. Bruno Fernandes played in the false nine position and pressed the Chelsea back three. He also dropped in the midfield to help out the side defensively and it was clear that Carrick wanted United to be compact and not concede chances.
Chelsea’s Fullbacks Nullified
Most of Chelsea’s goals this season have stemmed from their fullbacks pushing high up and being a threat to the opposition. With United having an extra midfield player in the middle of the park, this allowed them to track the fullbacks, and Chelsea only really found space in the middle of the park, where they were not threatening United’s goal. Jadon Sancho will be filled with confidence after scoring his first goal in the league and arguably, they should have won the game, Out of 24 shots, a penalty saved Chelsea from defeat and they did not create too many clear-cut chances.
Carrick Deserves Praise
A decent week for Manchester United with a win at Villarreal and a point against the league leaders. In both games, Carrick has made bold decisions when selecting the team and has dropped ‘big name players’. Defensively, United have looked relatively solid and have made it difficult for the opposition to open them up. The team has pressed with more intensity which led to the goal against Chelsea, forcing Jorginho into a mistake. Ralf Rangnick will have his own style when he takes charge if this team, but it must be noted that Carrick has instilled some stability to this side after two important results away from home.
Main Image Credit Embed from Getty Images
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