Manchester United beat Luton Town 3-0 on Tuesday night to book a place in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup.
The result was exactly what United needed after a disappointing 3-1 defeat to Crystal Palace at the weekend.
United did not field a full strength side against Palace, with question marks over the fitness and readiness of a number of key players.
Against Luton last night United’s players stepped up, and even though the scoreline flattered the team, the side passed the test and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer got his team selection right.
There were four players involved, either as starters or substitutes, who proved to Solskjaer that they must start this weekend against Brighton in the Premier League.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka
There was a bit of an overreaction to seeing Timothy Fosu-Mensah in the starting XI against Palace, in comparison to his performance.
The Dutchman created two chances going forward and was far from the biggest problem on the pitch.
However, Aaron Wan-Bissaka is just on another level defensively.
He played all 90 minutes against Luton and barely allowed a single threat down the right side.
This was the game he needed to get up to speed and he should now be a certain starter this weekend.
Eric Bailly
Victor Lindelof chose a terrible time to turn in his worst ever performance for United at the weekend.
He now needs a break out of the side and Bailly showed he is more than good enough to replace him.
The Ivorian was quick, strong, and alert against Luton, three things Lindelof was not at home to Palace.
His goalline clearance showed smart improvisation to protect United’s clean sheet.
What’s more is that he proved he can play alongside club captain Harry Maguire.
There will be a lot of unhappy supporters if Bailly is overlooked for Lindelof this weekend.
Nemanja Matic
For all the endeavour Scott McTominay provides, he lacks the defensive discipline and authority which Nemanja Matic brings to the team.
Matic was badly missed at home to Palace and he was a calming influence on the team against Luton.
He won two tackles, made two interceptions, and made four clearances, while completing 93 per cent of his passes.
Matic is ready to return to Premier League action and is a must-start on Saturday away to Brighton.
Mason Greenwood
The furore surrounding Greenwood and his England call-up and subsequent removal from the squad was unhelpful to both United and the player.
It led to Greenwood starting both of United’s opening two games on the bench.
Against Luton he needed only 11 minutes to make an impact, displaying impressive hold-up play to create a goal for Marcus Rashford.
He added to his assist with a goal minutes later, netting the first of many he will score this season.
The wonderkid is ready to step it up and he needs to start this weekend.
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