Manchester United defender Victor Lindelof starred on his first Premier League start for two months.
Manchester United’s embarrassment of riches at centre-back means an international captain like Victor Lindelof is reduced to a mere back-up.
But now with the injuries to Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane, Lindelof has been pushed back up into a regular starting role.
He showed at the City Ground that he can be relied upon, with an ice-cool display as Manchester United beat Forest 2-0.
Victor Lindelof stars
This was the first start Victor Lindelof had made in the Premier League since the win over Leicester back in mid-February.
His last league start start before this was against Bournemouth. Manchester United have kept clean sheets in all three games Lindelof has started in 2023.
Watching him against Forest it was not a surprise. He dealt with everything thrown at him, and played a role in helping Manchester United to build from the back.
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He completed more passes than any player on the pitch (62) while recording a 95 per cent success rate.
Lindelof won three duels, making two clearances, and nine ball recoveries. He even dribbled past opponents twice.
Ben Thornley told MUTV: “I thought Victor Lindelof was outstanding considering he has not played a lot of football.”
It was a complete defensive display, and this bodes well for the upcoming fixture schedule. Lindelof will have to play a key role between now and the end of the season.
Harry Maguire also solid
Harry Maguire also deserves credit for his part in Manchester United keeping a clean sheet.
After picking up an early booking, Maguire was put under pressure by Forest. He stood up to it well.
Erik ten Hag explained post-match that he felt switching Maguire to the right and Lindelof to the left, benefited the England international.
Maguire won six duels, more than any player on the pitch, completing 81 per cent of his passes, and making three interceptions.
Another clean sheet away at Sevilla in midweek requires more of the same. This was a good way for the side to bounce back from Thursday night.