5 things we learnt from Manchester United’s 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur

Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur met on Saturday with the two sides drawing 2-2 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

However, during the game, both Harry Maguire and Benjamin Sesko picked up injuries forcing the duo off the field and meaning that Ruben Amorim’s side had to finish the encounter with ten men.

Furthermore, the result, which saw two stoppage time goals from both teams, saw Tottenham move up to third while United moved up to seventh ahead of the rest of the Premier League’s fixtures.

Now, we go through five things that can be taken from the game.

1. 3-4-2-1 Works

As has been the case in each of Ruben Amorim’s other Premier League set-ups this season, the manager decided to use a 3-4-2-1 system with Matheus Cunha acting as the starting striker whilst Amad and Bryan Mbeumo supported him.

Meanwhile, Amorim decided to start Harry Maguire, Matthijs de Ligt, and Luke Shaw in the back three centre-backs.

But, as could be seen in the game, Manchester United’s formation allowed the team to succeed in attacking and defensive situations for the majority of the game and allowed Amorim’s side to score at least twice for the third game in a row.

Furthermore, the Red Devils were able to defend for the majority of the game successfully with Tottenham success coming in the later stages of the game.

Therefore, the argument can be made that Ruben Amorim’s choice of formation is working and is successful.

2. Harry Maguire is key to Manchester United’s gameplay

Harry Maguire departed proceedings at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the 72nd minute with his hamstring injury.

But, prior to this, the centre-back made two recoveries and won fifty percent of his aerial duels. However, it was when Maguire had the ball that he excelled against Tottenham.

During the encounter, the Englishman succeeded in 96% of his passes whilst the centre-back made 100% of both his crosses and long balls.

These statistics, arguably, show the defensive and midfield contributions that Harry Maguire can make in games.

That, combined with his attacking showing against Liverpool earlier in the season, convey the quality that the centre-back brings to Manchester United’s gameplay.

3. Bryan Mbeumo is worth the money Manchester United paid for him

Bryan Mbeumo was once again on the scoresheet, this time against Spurs marking the fifth time that the Cameroon international has scored in the Premier League this campaign.

However, it is not just in a direct attacking state where the 26-year-old can contribute.

Throughout the campaign, the forward has an expected assist figure of 2.54, has created 19 chances, and has had nine successful dribble showing how Mbeumo can positively contribute to Ruben Amorim’s vision.

Furthermore, the Cameroon international has won 15 fouls and made 34 recoveries showing how he has relive pressure from his side.

With these statistics in mind, the argument can be made that the money spent on Bryan Mbeumo is worth it.

4. Senne Lammens has found his spot at number one

Senne Lammens started the last five Premier League games with one clean sheet coming in this time.

Furthermore, the ‘keeper has prevented 1.31 goals, made 45 accurate long balls, and has made 14 saves.

As well as this, the Belgian seems to covered the number one position at Old Trafford with Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton seemingly not in contention to start unless Lammens picks up an injury during a match.

Therefore, the assumption can be made that Senne Lammens has been able to cement the number one position in Ruben Amorim’s side.

5. Casemiro has found a good level

Casemiro has scored in two of his three games with him starting each of each fixtures.

Furthermore, during his time at Old Trafford, the midfielder has scored twenty times in 135 appearances. As well as this, during this season in the Premier League, the Brazilian has made 23 accurate long balls, 22 tackles, and has won 46 duels.

These statistics arguably convey how Casemiro is able to contribute to defensive and midfield gameplay which is crucial for the side’s success.

Therefore, Casemiro has found a good level where he can play successfully.

What’s next for Manchester United?

Ruben Amorim’s side face Everton after the international break with the break allowing the Portuguese boss time to prepare for the game and to bring Lisandro Martinez back into the squad after his long-term injury.