MIRROR
Manchester United took a huge step towards a Champions League spot with a 2-0 victory over Wolves at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils dominated large swaths of the first half but took until just after the half-hour mark to take the lead. Anthony Martial was on hand to tap home Antony’s low cross to earn a first-half advantage.
Chances came and went for the hosts only for Wolves debutant Daniel Bentley to continually frustrate them. Alejandro Garnacho sealed victory in stoppage time as he rounded off a lethal counter-attack.
Here are all of the talking points from Old Trafford:
Given his finishing – or lack thereof – it is no surprise to note that he has just four Premier League goals to his name so far this term. Erik ten Hag will be keen to see that improve both before the end of the season and next term.
Martial sends message
Whilst the Brazilian was guilty of wasting a host of wonderful opportunities to get his name on the scoresheet, he at least showed great awareness for United’s opening goal. Following a rapid break, he teed up Martial for a tap-in.
The strike signalled the Frenchman’s eighth goal of the campaign and just his second in the Premier League since September. With plenty of talk surrounding a potential new striker arriving at Old Trafford this summer, Martial will be doing all he can to revive his Red Devils’ career.
A few more goalscoring displays between now and the end of the season will certainly go some way in ensuring he remains in Ten Hag’s plans.
Bentley enjoys impressive debut
Goalkeeper Daniel Bentley signed for Wolves back in January but had thus far been limited to a supporting role. Amid criticism for regular number one Jose Sa, the former Bristol City man was afforded his first chance to impress at Old Trafford.
He certainly did that. The 29-year-old produced a total of eight saves throughout what was both his Wolves and Premier League debut. One stop, in particular, was eye-catching as he produced an excellent save to deny Jadon Sancho.
Whilst his team were on the losing side, Bentley will certainly be satisfied to have caught the eye on his Wolves bow.
Red Devils receive injury boosts
With just a clutch of fixtures left to go for the campaign, the Red Devils will be aiming to finish strongly. That task will be assisted by a clutch of their injury absentees returning.
After sitting out the last seven Premier League games, French defender Raphael Varane was handed a spot straight back into the starting line-up. He did not put a foot wrong on his return.
