Christian Eriksen might be the player officially deployed in the false nine role today, but the interesting thing about their attacking line-up is the versatility of it all. Sancho, Rashford, Eriksen and Fernandes are all capable of playing in numerous different roles meaning we could see a 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1 and a 4-2-2-2 throughout the match. The key is to make that movement meaningful and not a wild mess instead.
A fan walked past and called my name, before asking if Arnautovic was true? For his and United’s sake, I hope not. He crossed his fingers in the hope it is the usual guff that surfaces during silly season.
The playlist at Old Trafford today is a far cry from the days of James, the Happy Mondays, New Order, Joy Division, The Mock Turtles et al. We have had (I think) Drake and now Stormzy. It’s not quite the stirring string of hits the natives are used to.
Ten Hag has already had his arms outstretched in an exchange with Dalot – after that opening Brighton had. Dalot is moving into midfield when United have the ball and Maguire is shifting to the right. Harry Maguire needs a big season to win over his doubters and he’s started well here, winning a free-kick out of nothing. He was excellent in pre-season and will likely benefit from having a regular partner in Martinez alongside him.
The travelling support are ‘ole-ing’ as their team easily keeps possession for a sustained period. Meanwhile, replays show Ronaldo was on-side in the build=up to Rashford’s miss. Ronaldo puts the ball on a plate for Rashford, who has all the time and space in the world to score but hits straight at the keeper. The flag goes up anyway but it’s certainly tight.
Dalot scores! Sanchez misses the ball from Fernandes’ corner and it lands for Dalot who flicks it in.
Diogo Dalot goal, following chances from Rashford, Ronaldo and Eriksen. Man Utd back in it? pic.twitter.com/q7lVZM48KR
— Football Night (@1Footballnight) August 7, 2022