Manchester United’s defence was without the injured Raphael Varane and suspended Harry Maguire against Chelsea.
United lined up with Victor Lindelof and Eric Bailly at centre-back, with both players given a chance to stake their claims for regular selection.
Lindelof had been impressive in United’s win over Villarreal in midweek and he continued that alongside Bailly against Chelsea.
Chelsea were only able to breach the defence when Aaron Wan-Bissaka gave away a second half penalty.
Lindelof showed quality
Lindelof led United with nine clearances to help repel Chelsea’s forays forward. Bailly followed as the next highest with six.
The Swede made one interceptions and blocked two shots, and did not give away any fouls.
When Chelsea threw on Romelu Lukaku for the final 10 minutes, there were fears that the striker’s physical approach could get the better of his former United teammate. These worries proved unfounded on this occasion.
Harry Maguire will be back for United’s game against Arsenal on Thursday night. But his selection should not be automatic.
Lindelof and Bailly both played well, and the Swede is most likely to retain his place against the Gunners.
The former Benfica defender’s return to form has come at an ideal time, when United needed a boost, and it is long overdue. He just needs to keep on playing like this, and if he does, he may be able to displace Maguire as Raphael Varane’s preferred partner.
Reaction
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