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7th February 2016
06:05pm GMT

However, Carrick and his midfield partner Marouane Fellaini, aren’t a natural fit and Chelsea, after withstanding a bright opening spell from United, figured out it doesn’t take much to get past them.
There was a distinct lack of pressure on the ball from the pair, who last started together in United’s loss to Stoke City on St Stephen’s Day, when United lost possession.
This contrasted with the workrate of Chelsea’s midfield, particularly Oscar, who repeatedly offered cover for their full-backs. Ander Herrera and Morgan Schneiderlin would have been better options to partner Carrick, but Louis van Gaal once again went with the Belgian.
Mata brought the young United left-back, who seems to possess strong crossing ability, into the game repeatedly and was near faultless in possession.
During United's purple patch last season, when they beat Spurs, Liverpool and Manchester City towards the back-end of the campaign, Mata was pivotal. If their recent upturn is to continue, the Spaniard needs to remain in his central position.
After 15 minutes, United had 71% possession and Anthony Martial looked like he was going to give Branislav Ivanovic a tough afternoon. However, United failed to create any clear chances, and allowed Chelsea back into the game. The hosts then dominated the period before half-time.
A bright start in the second half led to a number of efforts on goal for United, but they once again allowed Chelsea back into the game and endured a nervy final twenty minutes.
When Diego Costa equalised, it was difficult to argue Chelsea didn't deserve it. Between the 80th and 90th minute, Chelsea had 88% possession and had tested David de Gea with a number of efforts.
It appears United's confidence is still fragile after a horrible December and tough January. All the recent talk of a United revival proved premature, and they are now six points away from the Champions League places.
A win next week against Sunderland is essential before they return to their bogey ground: Old Trafford.Explore more on these topics: