Guardian match report here.
When I compiled my predictions of United's last 11 games, the team had just come off a comfortable 2-0 win against Sunderland, and although the results were good, the team's play on the field didn't really match up to fans' expectations.
One change to the starting 11 for that Sunderland game was the inclusion of Ander Herrera. I had been calling for his start for the longest time, and he has brought instant class to the team with his play. Herrera has started every game since Sunderland, and this has resulted in 5 Ws in a row.
Herrera scored 2 against Villa and linked up well, again, with Mata on the right. Rooney had a great goal, but a forgettable afternoon, whilst Di Maria got another assist despite playing only 20 minutes.
The real story for me is the confidence streaming through the team the last 2 or 3 games, and this has translated into wonderful play on the pitch. van Gaal's constant refrains of "balance" appears validated.
Carrick's return into the base of the midfield and Shaw's injury, has allowed Blind to blossom at left wing-back. His partnership with Young and Fellaini on the left has been very productive.
City, Spurs, Liverpool and Southampton have all lost points this weekend, and United's stranglehold on a Champion's League place appears almost complete.
Still, next 2 games will be tough. City at home and Chelsea away. I predicted 2 points earlier, and I still think that's a good return. It'd be great if United could sneak a win in either game.
Who knows, if United win both games (and with Arsenal still to visit Old Trafford), I'd be dreaming of bigger things...
