5 talking points as Manchester United score twice past Everton (Premier League)

Manchester United made it two wins in two with a 2-0 Premier League victory over Everton at Old Trafford.

Manchester United had one of their best starts to a game so far under Erik ten Hag, with 21 shots in the opening 45 minutes.

After a series of missed chances, it was Scott McTominay who rifled the ball past a brilliant Jordan Pickford in the 36th minute to break the deadlock, with United heading into half-time one goal to the good.

Read More: Man United’s Antony reveals personal hardships in emotional interview

Despite a fightback in the second half from Everton, substitute Anthony Martial sealed the three points for United in the second half.

#1 Maguire’s selection raises eyebrows

For the first time since 14 February, Harry Maguire started a Premier League fixture – with Ten Hag citing the tough schedule as why he decided to start the skipper ahead of Raphael Varane.

“The thinking is we have the most crazy schedule of all the Premier League teams, we have three games to cover in six days, which is not right, but we have to deal with it,” he told BT Sport.

The selection came as a surprise to many, however, after playing 90 minutes and a clean sheet, he executed his job to a high degree.

#2 A stunning start, but no one can score!

Manchester United’s opening 25 minutes saw them create multiple great chances, with Rashford, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Antony all being gifted perfect chances to score – but to no avail.

Everton were also handed a brilliant opening chance on 20 minutes as Ellis Simms scuffed a free shot wide from close range.

In terms of chance creation, it was arguably United’s best start to a game this season, but the squad’s lack of ability to finish their dinner was once again (painfully) highlighted. The first goal finally came from a more unlikely goalscorer in McTominay – the deepest of United’s front six.

#3 Antony’s mixed display

Antony had both a brilliant and dismal first 45 minutes. He was energetic, creative, forceful, and direct, however, he could not put the ball in the back of the net – Pickford denied him four times in the first half.

He had less of an effect on the second half, being substituted for Anthony Martial at 60 minutes.

His United career has been fairly turbulent so far, however, the talent is clear to see – improvement will come.

#4 David de Gea proves multiple points

David de Gea’s distribution was brilliant on the sunny Saturday afternoon, proving that he can in fact use his feet.

However, he also may have also proved a much more self-sabotaging point: If United were to acquire a goalkeeper with this level on a much more consistent basis, they may be able to play to a superior level on a much more consistent basis, too.

Despite Ten Hag’s public backing of the Spaniard, there have been multiple reports linking of United to alternative, feet-based goalkeepers for the coming window.

#5 Eriksen and Martial’s comebacks are perfect timing

Saturday’s fixture saw a return to the football pitch for Christian Eriksen and a return to the scoresheet for Anthony Martial.

Their respective reintroductions into the squad and line-up will be much welcomed by Ten Hag, with Eriksen being able to once again bless the XI with his calmness, presence, and experience.

If Martial can keep fit until the end of the season, it will mean the Red Devils finally have another consistent goal threat; lifting some burden from Rashford’s shoulders and adding a new dynamic to the attack.