Manchester United have seen yet another trophy evade them after losing to Middlesbrough in the FA Cup on Friday night. Ralf Rangnick’s side had gone into the game on a high following their narrow 1-0 win over West Ham before the winter break. Yet, on a torrid night at Old Trafford, they ended up throwing away their best chance of claiming silverware.
Manchester United lost to Middlesbrough in the FA Cup on Friday (Image: GETTY)
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
It’s been a slow start to life at Old Trafford for Sancho.
But the England international put in a promising showing, appearing to simplify his game.
Sancho was direct throughout the course of the contest, posing Boro problems with his speed and trickery.
His goal should do wonders for his confidence, with the former Borussia Dortmund star certainly a forward with the potential to be one of the best in the world.
United will be hoping Sancho can now put his sluggish start to life with the club behind him.
Manchester United star Paul Pogba impressed during Middlesbrough loss (Image: GETTY)
Fernandes lively
At the start of Rangnick’s reign, the 63-year-old struggled to coax the best from Bruno Fernandes.
Yet while the midfielder squandered some good chances against Boro, especially his one from close range that hit the post, it was a lively, productive showing from the midfielder.
Fernandes is perfect for the pressing game Rangnick wants to deploy, with the former Sporting Lisbon star racing around the pitch with vigour.
His finishing, obviously, needs improvement.
But with Fernandes and Rangnick now aligned, that can only be a positive for the future.
Manchester United pair Jadon Sancho and Bruno Fernandes were bright in Middlesbrough defeat (Image: GETTY)
Trending
Rangnick speaks out
Speaking after the game, Rangnick admitted he was disappointed at United’s failure to win the game.
"Incredibly disappointed, we should have won and killed off the game in the first half,” he said. “Crossbar, post, missed penalty and numerous chances. It should have been 2-0 or 3-0.
“We conceded a goal which I don't understand why it stood. He controlled it with his hand.
"In the moment when they scored, it was clear that VAR would not allow this goal to stand.
"We were not well-positioned in that moment, too open and allowed them the counter, we should have won the game.
"Anthony Elanga, anyone can imagine how he is, he is shattered and absolutely disappointed.
"It was the eighth penalty which had all converted."