Mason Greenwood’s brilliant goal showed what the United talent was capable of. We just needed a bit more of it.
United only created one half-chance for him, and Greenwood buried it, netting with his only shot of the match.
His young teammate Brandon Williams was not involved at all, an unused substitute after playing 90 minutes against AZ Alkmaar.
This may have been a mistake with United ending up settling for a 1-1 draw.
Williams’ performances have been eye catching over the past few weeks and it is his attacking which has made a big difference. His goal against Sheffield United helped spark a revival from two goals down.
His attacking performance in the second half against AZ Alkmaar also helped to kickstart United’s 4-0 win, with all goals coming after half-time.
United opted for Luke Shaw against Everton, and the senior star did not have a particularly good game.
Starting Shaw had logic after Williams played 90 minutes against Alkmaar, and the former’s impressive derby performance.
But in games where United need to break defensive teams down, Williams is a valuable asset, and should have come off the bench.
The 19-year-old’s fearless play, with his movement and confidence to bring the ball forward unsettles teams and creates attacking opportunities for his teammates.
After the game several supporters expressed their hope that Williams is brought back in for Premier League games.
What comes next for Williams?
Williams has not been picked in the league since the draw with Aston Villa at the end of last month.
His recent game against AZ Alkmaar was his first appearance since, as he competes with both Ashley Young and Luke Shaw.
United’s next game is up against Colchester in the Carabao Cup and there is a strong case to pick the teenager for Wednesday’s fixture.
The match with Watford in the Premier League is then on Sunday, and this gives one day extra rest than he would normally get between midweek and weekend matches. It’s possible Williams could play both.
He proved himself from a defensive and attacking point of view against Alkmaar, and it looked like the team missed his dynamism against Everton.
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