David De Gea: United’s goalkeeper has failed to convince at times this season, but tonight he was excellent, making a number of vital saves. 8

Rafael Da Silva: The weak link in United’s defence all night. He was regularly troubled by Ronaldo and others, but at least improved slightly in the second half. 4

Rio Ferdinand: Marshalled the defence well. Apart from one dodgy clearance that almost lead to a Coentrao goal, his leadership at the back helped his team improve collectively after a shaky start. 7

Jonny Evans: Another fairly solid display from the Northern Irishman, including one vital interception when Ronaldo looked likely to score. 7

Patrice Evra: Got forward well when he could, but was got caught isolated for Ronaldo’s goal. 6

Phil Jones: Was perhaps lucky not to concede a penalty when he nudged Di Maria over in the box, but aside from that, Jones performed the role that was expected of him with aplomb. 7

Michael Carrick: Didn’t do a lot wrong, but never really imposed himself on the game either. 6

Danny Welbeck: Worked extremely hard off the ball and took his goal extremely well. 7

Shinji Kagawa: Made some intelligent runs at times, but was quiet for the most part. 6

Wayne Rooney: Claimed an assist for the United goal, but didn’t do a lot apart from that, and lost his concentration occasionally when defending and allowed opposition players to drift past him on more than one occasion. 5

Robin van Persie: Always a threat, but wasn’t at his best, wasting one or two good opportunities. 6

Subs: Giggs did some good defensive work, but also wasted a glorious chance when he failed to capitalise on Alonso’s slip-up towards the end. Anderson and Valencia didn’t really have time to make an impact on the game. 6

Alex Ferguson: Many questioned his decision to play Jones in midfield, but ultimately it paid dividends and his tactics helped secure a positive result. 7

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