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Henrikh Mkhitaryan: How the Man United ace impressed and why he deserves another chance
QUITE apart from Wayne Rooney's history-making strike, the big talking point for Manchester United was the form of Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan was impressive on his return for Manchester United
We've had to wait a long time to make a proper assessment of the Armenian international in a Manchester United shirt but on this display he should stay in the team for Sunday's visit of West Ham.
Humiliatingly subbed at half-time in his only other start this season in the Manchester derby back on September 10, Mkhitaryan has had to bide his time to show that was just a one-off nightmare.
He has, according to Jose Mourinho, kept his head down and been working hard on getting his fitness up to the levels required.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan returned to the United starting XI for the first time since September
Henrikh Mkhitaryan received a standing ovation when he was subbed late on
But he showed the pace, skill and creativity that made him the Bundesliga players' player of the year last season after a sparkling campaign of goals and assists for Borussia Dortmund.
He played on either flank, linked well with Rooney, Juan Mata and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, looked a real goal threat - and United fans warmed to his efforts.
This was a Europa League game however rather than the hurly-burly of the Premier League and we need to hold fire before making a proper judgement yet.
But Mkhitaryan deserves to feature against the Hammers and this display will be a huge boost for his confidence.