Man Utd once again perform to a high standard but needed penalties to overcome a resolute Inter side. Although the first half was a drab affair there were key elements that were positive for Louis van Gaal and his staff, Valencia once again looked effective and well accustomed to his new role; him being key in the Man Utd attacks. Rooney looked sharp and match fit he looked eager to get on the ball, looking dangerous at almost every instance; his link up play was a key stand out.
However, they did struggle somewhat in the final third against a resilient Inter defence who kept men behind the ball in order to frustrate United which worked as the reds came closest through a set piece early on which Handanovic expertly saved a Phil Jones header.
In the second half a familiar picture was drawn with Inter more concerned with defensive responsibilities rather than making a game of it. It was in part at the fault of Man Utd for the lack of ability to breakdown the opposition, however Inter got away with giving away a penalty after Cleverly was clearly fouled. The only real opportunity came from an Inter costless kick well saved by De Gea.
Zaha got his first game of the tour and excelled in a role unknown to him offering a bright spark, however what was more telling in another players career was Nani after being subbed on at half time was subbed off, we are unsure whether he picked up an injury or was simply taken off if the latter it could be the end for him at Old Trafford.
A tough midfield battle saw the game level at the final whistle meaning penalties were needed, Man Utd converted all five of their penalties, with Young, Cleverly, Chicharito, Kagawa and Fletcher who expertly dispatched their opportunities. Wrapping up a third win on tour.
Darren Fletcher for the second time on the tour captained the side, although it is too early to speculate if the Scottish midfielder can get back to his best and hold a first team place perhaps he could be in the running for the captaincy at Old Trafford. It would also allow Van Gaal the option to diffuse any potential situation by handing the role to neither of the two favourites. The Scottish star played a combative role in the game - Inter and organised his team well. He could be the man Van Gaal is looking for. Fletcher converted the winning penalty as Man Utd converted all five of their penalties.
Van Gaal has appeared to have seen something in Old Trafford misfit Ashley Young, whether it be he is giving everyone an opportunity to prove themselves or any other reason it would seem that the former Aston Villa man has one last chance and so far has taken it. This comes as Van Gaal believes Young can play in a wingback role giving the player a versatility that could prove vital in reviving his Man Utd career. As it proved against Inter, Van Gaal did well to place his trust in the winger, although it is something he will need more time to adapt to.
All the focus ahead of the game was on the return of Vidic, no wonder, every time you saw the man you lay your head in astonishment to why Man Utd ever let him go. The reds were aerially poor failing to win a majority of headers in their own box, they lacked a true leader’s presence. Of Course, this can be rectified through more hard work on the training ground, but they had the perfect fit and they let it go; a big mistake.
For Van Gaal his side role on, they face Real Madrid this Saturday and potentially Man City in the final if results play out. So another good night for the reds, time will tell if the Dutch boss can take his team back to the top.
