Manchester United missed out on the chance to close the gap on the top four as Liverpool ran out 2-0 winners at Anfield on Sunday.
Virgil van Dijk gave the Premier League leaders a deserved first-half lead and, while United pushed for an equaliser late on, Mohamed Salah scored in injury time to wrap up all three points for Liverpool.
James Robson was at Anfield to run the rule over United's players...
David de Gea: 5
Absolutely crucial save to deny Mane in the first half – but weak when challenged by Van Dijk for Liverpool’s disallowed second goal.
No options with the ball at his feet – but still took the wrong one too often. Lacked composure under pressure from Liverpool.
First game as permanent captain and was part of a back line that was given a torrid time. Important interception to stop Van Dijk scoring a second.
Luke Shaw: 6
Surprise choice in a back three and worked diligently to cover the gaps left by Williams pressing so high.
Playing high up, he caused Liverpool some problems – including setting up Pereira for a golden chance to equalise. Desperately needs to improve his final ball.
Fred: 6
Part of a midfield that was swamped in the first half. Grew into it after the break with some driving runs to push Liverpool back.
Booked early on as part of an uncertain start. Some important interceptions, but distribution not good enough.
Why on earth was he picking up Van Dijk at a corner? Often left Shaw exposed.
Dan James: 4
His pace should have been one of United’s greatest threats – but didn’t get behind Liverpool’s defence anywhere near enough.
Can’t fault his effort, but so often the quality comes up short. Loses the ball too often in promising positions.
He was always going to be United’s best chance of getting anything from this game, which is why his rash shot in the second half when given a clear sight of goal was so disappointing.
Subs
Juan Mata (for Pereira, 74): 4
Brought on to give United composure and open Liverpool up. It didn’t work.
Mason Greenwood (for Williams, 74): 4
Couldn’t be United’s wildcard. Perhaps he should have been on from the start.
Diogo Dalot (for Shaw, 87)
Too late to mark.
Not used
Sergio Romero, Eric Bailly, Phil Jones, Jesse Lingard
