Manchester United produced one of their most lacklustre displays under Michael Carrick as they stumbled to a goalless draw against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. The visitors barely troubled the Black Cats' goalkeeper Robin Roefs, and the fact that Senne Lammens emerged as their standout performer by some distance illustrated the pressure they endured.
Lammens made an early impression with a sharp save from Noah Sadiki and threw himself at Brian Brobbey's feet to clear the danger. He made another crucial stop from Brobbey after the interval. However, his distribution was not particularly impressive, though he played it safe throughout.
At the other end, Joshua Zirkzee struggled up front, nodding a free header over the bar in the first half and finding it difficult to hold play up. The Dutchman lacks the ability and determination to establish himself at United in the long run, according to the Manchester Evening News' player ratings.
Defender Harry Maguire was effective aerially in both penalty areas but delivered an underwhelming performance on the ball, surrendering possession too easily. Midfielder Kobbie Mainoo attempted to impose himself but only managed it in brief spells, looking lost without Casemiro alongside him.
United have already secured Champions League qualification for next season, but this performance will raise concerns about their depth and form heading into the final stretch of the campaign.
