Player Ratings: Manchester United vs Stoke City

Rio- back to his best

Ben Amos– Making his Premier League debut, Amos acquitted himself well against a Stoke side known for its less than cordial treatment of opposition goalkeepers. No real saves of note, but one impressive punch. 6

Patrice Evra- Probably glad to face mediocre opposition after his mistake at Anfield, Patrice Evra defended solidly. His attacking forays should, perhaps, have yielded two penalties. 6

Rio Ferdinand- After another prolonged absence, Rio looked comfortable. He was, as usual, composed in defense, cooling playing the ball around Stoke’s uninspired front men. 7

Jonny Evans- It was a good day for controversial United players. Darron Gibson had his name sung incessantly and Evans, albeit against a Stoke City side lacking vigor, played comfortably. 6

Chris Smalling– Not as dangerous as Rafael going forward, but far more reliable at the back. Chris Smalling is certainly not a long term answer at right back but, against teams like Stoke City, he is sufficient cover. 6 

Park Ji-Sung- Calling Park vigorous, industrious, insert patronizing adjective here, is unfair and reductive. His clever dribble won United a penalty. That assist was just rewards for a skillful and enterprising display. 7

Michael Carrick– Along with Antonio Valencia, Carrick has been United’s most improved player this winter. Once again, his incisive play in midfield facilitated attacks, while his conscientiousness in defense frustrated the opponent. Looks an ideal partner for the returning Tom Cleverley. 8

Paul Scholes- A magnificent performance. Scholes orchestrated everything from a deep lying midfield position, spraying passes from one corner to another. His return could prove more decisive in this year’s title race than many originally thought. 9

Antonio Valencia- Ran riot against a weary looking Stoke rearguard. Valencia is arguably United’s most potent attacker at the moment, continuing his recent momentum with an assist. ArgubabFerguson’s best signing for a long, long while. 9

Dimitar Berbatov- New mohawk, new Berbatov. Dead squirrel and all, Berbatov looked lively in his first start since United’s loss at Newcastle. Tucked away a lovely penalty and linked play well. 7

Javier Hernandez- There was more than just a 1-0 lead riding on Hernandez’s penalty: after weeks of frustration, he needed a lift. Still looks complacent in possession, but Chicharito will have been lifted by a much improved performance.  6

Paul Pogba (on for Hernandez)- Skillful, confident and audacious, Paul Pogba looks the real deal. He was lively in a twenty minute cameo, passing accurately and whipping in a handful of dangerous crosses. Prospect. 7