Here are five things we learned from Manchester United 1-0 Omonia Nicosia in tonight’s Europa League clash at Old Trafford.
Francis Uzoho has night to remember
With Brazilian stopper Fabiano injured for the Cypriots, Neil Lennon brought in Nigeria international Uzoho who performed heroics at the Theatre of Dreams.
Making just his third appearance of the season, the 23-year-old was a constant thorn in Erik ten Hag’s side.
Real Sociedad win again
The La Liga side’s grip on the top spot of Group E is showing no sign of loosening following the conclusion of matchday four.
The San Sebastian-based side beat Sheriff Tiraspol 3-0 thanks to goals from Norway international and ex-Crystal Palace man Alexander Soerloth, and former Bournemouth full-back Diego Rico, as well as Robert Navarro.
With two Group E games, Manchester United find themselves still three points behind David Silva’s Sociedad.
Jadon Sancho and Luke Shaw look lively down United’s left-hand side
The England duo came on to replace Antony and Tyrell Malacia after an hour, and while Sancho drifted from one flank to the other – his best work came when he combined with the former Southampton youngster.
The former Borussia Dortmund hasn’t established that understanding and partnership with summer signing Malacia as of yet.
But Sancho and Shaw produced some encouraging interplay which resulted in some glorious chances being carved out down United’s left-hand side.
Scott McTominay scores winner after not starting despite being suspended for Newcastle clash
Ten Hag opted to give Fred his first start in five weeks, and he played the Brazilian alongside his compatriot Casemiro.
McTominay is unavailable for Sunday’s home game against Eddie Howe’s Magpies after picking up his fifth top-flight booking in Sunday’s 2-1 win at Everton.
United’s number 39 came on to replace Casemiro with ten minutes remaining and struck the winner in the 93rd-minute. The Scotland international will be hoping to reclaim his place in the starting line-up for Wednesday’s home clash against Tottenham Hotspur after serving a one-game domestic ban.
Ten Hag’s side facing potential fixture pile up
With the top side progressing automatically to the last-16 of the Europa League next year, the onus was on Ten Hag’s side to stay within touching distance of Sociedad.
Teams that finish as runners-up in the groups will meet a third-placed team from the Champions League in a round of 32 play-off, and will have to fit another two games into an already jam-packed fixture schedule.
With postponed matches against Crystal Palace and Leeds United needing to be re-arranged as well, Ten Hag’s side face a potential nightmare pile up of fixtures if we don’t oust Sociedad.
The two sides will face one and other in the last game of the group stages on 3 November at the Reale Seguros Stadium.
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