Ten Hag’s men saw England defender and Fernandes shine in narrow victory

VICTOR LINDELOF was Manchester United’s surprise matchwinner as defensive partner Harry Maguire again showed why he’s back in favour.

Recalled Lindelof fired the only goal after 59 minutes to see off lowly Luton on Saturday and lift the Red Devils to sixth in the Premier League.

Harry Maguire’s excellent return to the Man Utd side continuedCredit: Getty

Marcus Rashford’s indifferent season went on against LutonCredit: Getty

Victor Lindelof slotted Man Utd’s winner just before the hourCredit: PA

But on another frustrating afternoon up front for Erik ten Hag’s men, Marcus Rashford confirmed he’s still not back to his best.

Injury-plagued United also suffered two more fitness scares as Christian Eriksen and Rasmus Hojlund were forced off.

Here’s how the Red Devils rated as they got back on track following last Wednesday’s controversial 4-3 Champions League loss at FC Copenhagen.

ANDRE ONANA -7

Had nothing to do for the first half hour.

But was alert to Carlton Morris’ close range header with a fine full length save.

DIOGO DALOT – 7

With Aaron Wan-Bissaka unwell he got the nod at right back but he lacks the former’s ability both in tackling and his influence going forward.

HARRY MAGUIRE – 8

Captain material this guy. Another impressive solid performance as his admirable revival at United continues.

VICTOR LINDELOF – 7

Chosen to keep Luton quiet and brought the biggest roar of the day at the opposite end of the field where he was the hero scoring his first goal for the club since December 2020.

SERGIO REGUILON – 5

Did well enough but the way he theatrically went down holding his face after the slightest touch from Tahith Chong was embarrassing.

CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 5

Was trying to dictate proceedings from deep but had his game cut short through injury just before half-time.

SCOTT MCTOMINAY – 7

Like Maguire he has had an amazing revival at a club who were listening to offers for the Scottish international in the summer. Even though Casemiro is injured you would have him in the starting line-up before the Brazilian on this season’s performances so far.

ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 6

Blew a great chance to take the lead when put in one-on-one by Rasmus Hojlund, but got all tangled up as he tried to round the goalkeeper and Issa Kanore got back to win the ball.

BRUNO FERNANDES – 8

The previous weekend’s matchwinner was the most effective United player on the pitch. Has to stay in this number 10 role rather than be shifted wide or dropped deep as he is on occasions.

MARCUS RASHFORD – 6

Played alright but seems to amble through games now rather than light them up with his electric bursts of pace and skill. Missed a great chance in the second-half firing straight at the goalkeeper.

RASMUS HOJLUND – 6

Had the chances to net his first Premier League goal but was denied at point blank range when he kneed the ball straight at Thomas Kaminiski from point-blank range in the first half. Flicked a header well wide in the second.

Rasmus Hojlund led the Red Devils’ frontline but went off injured late onCredit: EPASUBS

MASON MOUNT (On for Eriksen 40): Still not sure why they bought him or what he does for United. 5.

ANTONY (on for Garnacho 68): Perhaps the most disappointing buy of all under Ten Hag. Did little when he came on. 5

VARANE (On for Reguillon 79): Left out of the starting line-up because the manager felt Lindelof was more comfortable as the left-hand centre back but have to think there is more to it. 5

MARTIAL (On for Hojlund 79) Guess what? He didn’t score. 5

Erik ten Hag saw his Man Utd side edge past Luton in the PremCredit: EPA