United View: Garnacho’s wondergoal and Mainoo is finally unleashed

Goodison Park is renowned for producing a fierce atmosphere when necessary and following their unprecedented ten-point deduction Sunday was expected to be a mighty test of United’s resilience.

Not only did United stand tall, they silenced the crowd within the first few minutes.

Alejandro Garnacho’s extraordinary overhead kick gave United breathing room before the crowd was able to fire up the home side. It was a truly special goal that helped set the tone and will live long in the memory for its sheer individual brilliance.

While Garnacho’s goal stole the spotlight, the true standout on Sunday was 18-year-old Kobbie Mainoo. Erik Ten Hag’s decision to start Mainoo in such a crucial match turned out to be a masterstroke, he looked unfazed by the occasion and played with a level of maturity beyond his years.

For anyone who watched United in pre-season, his ability will come as no surprise. Only the ankle injury he sustained on United’s tour of America has kept him out of contention until now. While still young, he provides a different dynamic to United’s midfield.

He completed 34 passes on Sunday, whilst most were sideways, it complements the likes of Bruno Fernandes who plays his football on the front foot. He also showcased his ability to play on the half-turn and his composure whilst in possession.

His game was epitomised by his goal-line clearance with the score at 1-0, being in the right place at the right time. The match also marked the return of Luke Shaw, providing much-needed balance on United’s left.

Injuries have hindered United this season and with other key figures slowly making their return, soon Ten Hag will be able to field his strongest eleven. Last week Lisandro Martinez returned to individual training as part of his rehabilitation process.

The clean sheet, along with goals from Garnacho, Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial injects confidence into United’s front line. Especially for Rashford, who was given the penalty by the captain Bruno Fernandes for his second goal of the season.

Despite not being at his best, he confidently dispatched the penalty. After having such a poor start to the season so far, it was good to see him grab a goal. If he can find his form from last season it could be a huge turning point for United.

Everton had their moments but for the most part, United stood strong. The second goal provided a comfortable lead before the game was over with Martial’s cool finish to make it 3-0. They still aren’t the finished article, but Sunday was a step in the right direction.

Hopefully, this was just the result the Reds needed before two more tough fixtures away to Galatasaray and Newcastle – the former having not taken place at the time of writing. Two good results could help dispel the notion that United struggle under pressure.

Defeat to Galatasaray would all see Ten Hag’s side all but eliminated from the Champions League, while Newcastle aims to surpass United in the League table. Eddie Howe’s side dealing with its own injury woes presents an opportunity for United to capitalise and continue their good run of form.

Sunday was arguably United’s best result of the season; however, it was only one game and the road to redemption is ongoing. The festive period presents an opportunity for United to continue their positive momentum.

The Reds are by no means back to their best just yet, but they are still in a favourable position, sitting four points off the top four and six points from Arsenal at the top of the table.