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How Manchester United’s players rated in their late show against Stoke
Antonio Valencia – Celebrated his contract extension with another solid performance down the right- hand side for Mourinho’s side, and spent most of the match almost as a right-winger. Could be partly blamed for Stoke’s goal, as he allowed Pieters time and space to get the cross in. 6.
Chris Smalling – Had very little to do on his return to the United starting line-up, dealing with the aerial threat of Crouch well throughout. Made a crucial second-half block from Shaqiri inside the penalty area to keep his side in the contest. 7.
Phil Jones – Has been a dependable figure at the heart of United’s defence since his return to the side, and had another solid match despite not having a lot to do. Made a vital challenge late on to keep the visitor’s hopes of a comeback alive. 7.
Daley Blind – Had a fairly anonymous match on Saturday; doesn’t carry the attacking threat that Valencia does with his pace, and had little to do at the back. Will get more game-time with United’s fixture list starting to pile up, but with Shaw coming back he’ll have to impress Mourinho. 5.