Eric Bailly seized his chance to shine for United in Sunday’s win over Leicester.
The Ivorian was selected ahead of Phil Jones to partner star defender Victor Lindelöf, who at this stage has become an automatic pick.
Bailly and Lindelöf are United’s most expensive defenders, both bought by Jose Mourinho.
Yet Mourinho was reluctant to start the pair together after a disjointed performance against Brighton in August.
(photo by Conor Molloy/Action Plus via Getty Images)
Lindelof was imperious as ever, and David de Gea pulled off a number of excellent saves. As always.
Bailly’s performance was his best for a while. He did not make rash mistakes, and he appeared at ease alongside Lindelöf.
This is the partnership Solskjaer wanted, before Bailly picked up a red card and suspension late last month.
(Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
Bailly has a chance now to establish himself alongside Lindelöf and start against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.
United will sign a new centre-back in the summer, so Bailly needs to make these next few months count at Old Trafford and give himself a fighting chance next season.
Reaction
Here is a look at how United fans reacted on Twitter to Bailly’s performance…
Bailly has to start from now on. No more chopping and changing at the back. Let him build a partnership with Lindelof!! When Jones came on, he had one job i.e. stop crosses coming in and clear the ball. But, he lost his mark, Maguire and United almost got punished for it. #MUFC
— Red Devils Daily (@RedDevilsDaily) February 3, 2019
Bailly actually uses his whole body, soul and spirit to defend 😭
— ~ M ~ (@Mxbel) February 3, 2019
OGS already succeed to change Bailly. He was a bit rash. But for last night performance against Leicester. He was very calm. Waiting for the opponent. OGS changed him already.
— Men (@syaaamilllll) February 3, 2019
Bailly and Lindelof should definitely be our main cb partnership for the rest of the season
— . (@RoamingSix) February 3, 2019
I thought Bailly was MOTM, absolutely superb 👍🔴 #mufc
— Jamie (@zJamie_) February 3, 2019
Bailly’s performance very underrated. First time in ages he seemed so secure barring the occassional glitch. Good gritty win. #mufc #LEIMUN
— FergsX (@Fergs24) February 3, 2019
United were resilient and took their early chance. Bailly is an excellent defender when he doesn’t get himself injured or sent off. #LCFC #MUFC #LEIMUN #EPL
— Thank you Stan Lee (@coldfusionMBE) February 3, 2019