Manchester United produced one of their most lacklustre displays under Michael Carrick as they stumbled to a goalless draw at the Stadium of Light against Sunderland. The match saw two sides who had already achieved their primary objectives for the season, but it was the Black Cats who controlled the proceedings.
Having secured Champions League qualification last weekend, United failed to show up in the north east. They barely troubled Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs, and the fact that Senne Lammens emerged as their standout performer by a considerable margin illustrated the pressure they endured.
Player Ratings
Senne Lammens - 8
Made an early impression with a sharp save from Noah Sadiki and threw himself at Brian Brobbey's feet to clear danger. Another crucial stop from Brobbey after the interval. Distribution was not particularly impressive, but he played it safe throughout.
Noussair Mazraoui - 5
Found himself in difficulty when Chemsdine Talbi attacked him directly. Has not laid down a marker against Diogo Dalot during the second half of the campaign and this fell short of his usual standards.
Harry Maguire - 6
Effective aerially in both penalty areas but an underwhelming performance on the ball. Surrendered possession too easily on occasions and invited unnecessary pressure.
Lisandro Martinez - 5
Misplaced his opening pass and it appeared to knock his confidence. Struggled against the powerful Brobbey, who got the better of their duels.
Luke Shaw - 6
Battled reasonably well at left-back and appeared to have a respectable outing considering the pressure United found themselves under. Composed in possession but unable to push forward with any real intent.
Kobbie Mainoo - 6
Attempted to impose himself on proceedings but only managed it in brief spells. Was required to put in a considerable amount of defensive graft but looked lost without Casemiro alongside him.
Mason Mount - 6
First appearance from the start under Carrick. Given little opportunity to demonstrate his ability on the ball, but grafted tirelessly to unsettle the opposition defensively. His partnership with Mainoo lacked a certain physicality.
Amad - 5
Received a warm reception from Sunderland supporters as he stepped up to take a first-half corner. Fired a first-half effort wide and struggled to leave his mark on the match.
Bruno Fernandes - 6
Visibly exasperated by his side's display and never truly threatened to claim that record-equalling assist. A forgettable afternoon following a season to cherish.
Matheus Cunha - 5
Spent much of the match on the periphery. Produced one particularly tame second-half effort in a game that desperately called for his influence.
Joshua Zirkzee - 4
Nodded a free header over the bar in the first half and found it difficult to hold play up. Lacks the ability and determination to establish himself at United in the long run.
Substitutes
- Patrick Dorgu - 6: Afforded little opportunity to make his presence felt.
- Bryan Mbeumo - 6: Insufficient time to stamp his authority on the game.
Subs not used: Bayindir, Dalot, Heaven, Yoro, Malacia, T. Fletcher, J. Fletcher.
