Manchester United subtle change made unsung hero shine in Brentford win

Wout out

It seemed certain that United would have to make changes for the visit of Brentford, but it was a surprise to only see one of them, with Wout Weghorst finally dropping out of the side.

The Dutch forward had started 19 matches in succession since he arrived in January, though there was no way he was going to keep his place after the dire nature of his performance against Newcastle.

Jadon Sancho came into the side in his place, and that allowed United to play with a mobile front three, who all interchanged throughout the match and caused their opponents more of a headache than usual.

It's clear United need a new forward, but in the meantime, it makes sense to start with a false nine rather than a striker failing to impersonate one.

Read next: How the United players rated vs Brentford

Rashford scores again

United have not been great goalscorers this season, but they do at least have one in their team.

Marcus Rashford had endured somewhat of a drought heading into this match yet displayed impressive predatory instinct to slam home from close range and give his side the lead.

The 25-year-old matched Andy Cole's goal tally with his 121st for the club, and no player has scored more Premier League goals in 2023 than his nine.

With Rashford in attack, there is always a chance, and he often only needs one himself. When he scores they tend to win.

Unsung hero

There might have only been one direct change from the line up against Newcastle, but it was a subtle one that made a huge difference in midfield.

Marcel Sabitzer struggled in the holding role at St. James' Park and looked a completely different player when given the freedom to play in his favoured box-to-box role in midweek.

He made the most of the space