Player Ratings: United v West Ham

Lindegaard – In command when dealing with our aerial threats throughout the game, the Danish international was impressive in that respect. However, all too often he gave the ball away cheaply and once again reminded me of how spoilt we are with De Gea’s spectacular distribution. 6

Rafael – One of the few players that looked to take the game by the balls and actually interested in winning today. His well-timed runs and creative passes were a sight for sore eyes. 8

Smalling – A big performance from Chris in every sense of the word. It was interesting to see how he’d cope as the leading defender and he held our line together brilliantly. 8

Jones – I’ve doubted his ability to play as a CB due to his height and his less than impressive reading of the game, but today he was very impressive and proved that I may have been wrong after all. 8

Büttner – Still not sure whether he’ll ever be good enough for United. His touch seems off, his positioning poor and his performances inconsistent. 5

Valencia – To be fair, he didn’t have as bad a game as many made out to be the case. Still, his crossing was poor and his influence over the game minimal. 5

Anderson – Played a fabulous pass for our goal but that was it from the Brazilian. He soon faded away and started losing the ball too easily and tired out within the half. Needs more games now. 5

Giggs – Incredible. No two ways to describe him. When others looked to be bystanders when the going got tough, the 39 year old took it upon himself to see us through to the next round. Simply incredible. 9

Nani – Great to have him back into the team but the Portuguese international didn’t have the best of games. He did come close with a shot cleared of the line but that was it. 6

Rooney – As shit as he was, and he was very shit, it’s still good to have him back in time for our clash with Madrid. He needs to get his fitness back now, and quick. 5

Hernandez – A fantastic performance from the young Mexican who looked to be involved with every single one of our attacks. It’s great seeing him in such lively form. 8

Subs:
Carrick – It was disappointing to see just how poor our midfield looked without its anchorman. We finally looked a side again after he came on. Big influence. 8

Scholes – Helped settle the ship as well by keeping things simple and well done. 7