‘Perfect’, ‘Top’: Fernandes & Martinez praise 8/10 United star who made 7 clearances vs Arsenal | OneFootball

Manchester United progressed to the FA Cup fourth round following an impressive penalty shoot-out win against Arsenal on the road.

The Red Devils played more than 60 minutes with a man down, but they showed a terrific defensive resolve at the Emirates Stadium.

The entire backline stepped up for the encounter. Altay Bayindir was brilliant between the sticks with six saves. He denied Kai Havertz in the shoot-out.

Harry Maguire was exceptional with his aerial presence and clearances. Matthijs de Ligt also stood out and made a vital block on Declan Rice’s shot.

The Dutchman also won 100 percent of his ground duels with seven clearances. He lost possession on just four occasions over the course of the game.

Shortly after the win, De Ligt praised the ‘elite mentality‘ of the team with an Instagram post.

Fernandes and Martinez were impressed with the centre-back’s showing and hailed his performance.

The former said he was ‘perfect’ with his tackle, likely pointing out on the Rice moment.

Martinez added it was a ‘top’ performance from the former Bayern Munich star, who received a 8/10 rating for his performance from Manchester Evening News.

De Ligt had a mixed start to his United career, but he has stepped up to become an important player.

The 25-year-old had a couple of forgettable moments against Liverpool this month, but made amends with a terrific sliding block to deny Rice from scoring.

The centre-back needs to continue his good form going forward. United host Southampton and Brighton & Hove Albion in the next two league games in the space of four days.

They have the opportunity to climb up from 13th in the standings with back-to-back wins.

Stats from Sofascore.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .