Man Utd 3-1 Newcastle Player Ratings: Rashford shines, Willock woeful
Manchester United had an on-form Marcus Rashford to thank as the forward produced a performance which elevated their routine 3-1 win over Newcastle at Old Trafford.
Rashford smashed the opening goal in at the near post and though Allan Saint-Maximin levelled United never looked in too much danger. Daniel James put them back in front and then Rashford won a penalty which was converted by Bruno Fernandes.
Man Utd 3-1 Newcastle: Player Ratings, Match Stats, Player Stats
So who were the standout performers?
✔️ A-S Maximin: 7.4
The Newcastle forward was one of the few threats from the visitors throughout the contest and probably didn't deserve to be on the wrong side of the scoreline.
He showed excellent composure to side-foot into the roof of David de Gea's net and level the scores and for a while it looked like he could be the man to unlock United's defence.
ASM hit the target with all three of his efforts on goal, as well as completing two dribbles and making six touches inside the opposition penalty area.
But he couldn't do it all on his own, and he'll be wondering if his talents would be better used elsewhere.
❌ Joe Willock: 5.5
The on-loan Arsenal midfielder has made a promising start to life in the north-East but this match was a step too far for him and he offered his team nothing in either area of the pitch.
Willock is known for his runs to support the attack but they weren't in evidence here as Newcastle struggled to get out of their own territory at times.
And his poor evening was compounded by a reckless concession of a penalty to Rashford, needlessly sticking out a leg in the area and bringing down the forward.
⭐ Marcus Rashford: 8.0
Rashford was wasteful in midweek against Real Sociedad but he was far more clinical from an attacking perspective against Newcastle.
His neat move on Emil Krafth in the opening stages led to him getting a shot away which found its way inside the near post, and throughout his build up was intelligent and in the right areas.
And it was his excellent close footwork which forced Willock to dive into his feet and give away a penalty. He hit the target with both of his shots on goal as well as completing five dribbles, by far the most in the match.
In a game where it looked like United may struggle for openings, he provided the necessary spark and effectively won the game for his team.
Man Utd 3-1 Newcastle: Player Ratings, Match Stats, Player Stats