Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte was in action as a starter for Uruguay vs Algeria.
Manuel Ugarte has been struggling for starts at Manchester United since Michael Carrick’s appointment, and for most of the season.
International break came at the perfect time for him. After starting for Uruguay against England, Ugarte was selected as a starter again in their friendly vs Algeria.
Manuel Ugarte: Uruguay vs Algeria
Manuel Ugarte played all 90 minutes as Uruguay and Algeria played out a dull 0-0 draw. Both sides were low on quality, with just one shot on target the entire game.
Uruguay had 11 shots but only one was on target. Ugarte did attempt one shot at goal but this was blocked.
Ugarte was heavily involved with 88 touches in total. He completed 62 of 68 passes, 91 per cent.
He was more active defensively, helping to stifle the Algeria attacks, where they failed to land a single shot on target.
Ugarte made three tackles, one clearance and one interception. He was far from immaculate, winning only six of 15 duels.
It was a decent performance against limited opposition, but there was little in terms of attacking quality, with no chances created.
The international break has been useful for Ugarte to boost his fitness and confidence, ahead of a crucial stretch of the season for United.
But there was not anything here that made a real statement to suggest he should be a starter when United finally return to action on April 13.
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