DBasia.news – Manchester United is back at the top of the Premier League standings by maintaining the winning momentum under the direction of Ralf Rangnick. After a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace, the Red Devils won 1-0 against Norwich City.
Playing at Carrow Road, Sunday (12/12) morning WIB, Man United was made to struggle to score goals despite having 53% possession of the ball. Norwich who are in the relegation zone were also struggling.
It was proven that both teams had five shots on target. But one moment changed the game and it was in the 75th minute when the referee awarded a penalty to Man United after Cristiano Ronaldo was fouled.
Ronaldo (36 years old) did not waste that opportunity and scored the winning goal for Man United. Despite winning, Ralf Rangnick does not like to see his team lack in intensity and provide opportunities for opponents.
“It was hard work and, in some parts of the game, we did well. On the other hand, we lacked a bit of intensity, body language and we weren’t as aggressive as Norwich, especially up front.
“We could have done it with more intensity, with more physicality. In the end, it was important to keep clean sheets again, thanks to David De Gea, who made three or four brilliant saves in the second half.”
“Overall, the most important thing is that we have the three points. (However) I would still be happy with fewer chances, with fewer corners and free-kicks. I think we just suffered too many chances, especially in the second half.”
Victor Lindelof’s Shortness of Breath
There was one moment from the game that caught attention and it happened in the 70th minute. At that time United defender, Victor Lindelof appeared to be in pain and clutched his chest. Rangnick took no chances and replaced him with Eric Bailly. Rangnick told Lindelof what had happened.
“He can’t even remember how it happened. I think he collided with another player and he had trouble breathing for more than 10 minutes, his heart rate was higher than usual and because of that he was a bit shocked and he didn’t know how to deal with it.” Said Rangnick.
“After the game we did some checks with the doctor and it seems that everything is fine.”
“We still have to wait and see how he does tomorrow, we have to see how he does for the Brentford game.”
United captain, Harry Maguire added to Rangnick’s comments and noticed that Lindelof was uncomfortable in the changing room.
“He was in the changing room. He felt a little uncomfortable,” Harry Maguire told Sky Sports.
“We don’t really know too many details but he seemed fine there. He was feeling uncomfortable and we all wish him well.”
In the next match, Man United will play away against another Premier League promotion team, Brentford at the Brentford Community Stadium, Wednesday (15/12) morning WIB. If Lindelof is not ready to play, then Bailly will take his place.