One of the highlights from Manchester United’s pre-season win over Everton was the success from set pieces, at both ends.
Everton are a physical side who have caused United problems in the past. In this game, albeit just a friendly, United coped easily.
Of even greater satisfaction was at the other end. Harry Maguire scored a powerful header from a set piece. This was what we hoped for when he signed for the club, but his goalscoring success rate from corners has been poor.
Maguire had another chance after scoring his goal, and then Bruno Fernandes scored from a free-kick to top off a successful start.
So why the sudden success from set pieces? It is hard not to tie the performance in with the arrival of coach Eric Ramsay.
Instant impact
Ramsay was hired as a set piece specialist and the early signs look promising. The former Chelsea coach has had a full pre-season to work with the players.
This was a sensible appointment as defending set pieces was a major weak point for United last season, and along with the signing of Raphael Varane, Ramsay could prove valuable once the season starts.
United may not have had any new signings on show against Everton, but Ramsay’s impact was evident.
The real jury will be out when the season begins of course, but based on what we saw at Old Trafford earlier today, there is plenty of reason to feel positive about this appointment and improvement to the team.
Reaction
United supporters were quick to praise Ramsay for his role in United’s 4-0 win…
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