GK Guglielmo Vicario
Another game where Vicario was not called upon often. There was not much for him to get involved with, and that’s the way we want games to go. Even on a quiet night like this, though, it does seem like he is more confident in commanding his area this season. This is true on corners, too, which were an issue last season. Thomas Frank likely takes a lot of credit for that, but it is good to see Vicario’s form improve as well. Bigger tests to come with this in the upcoming games. Rating: 8
RB Pedro Porro
Not really tested defensively and looked to enjoy the opportunity to get forward as much as possible. Porro is at his best when he is roaming like this and getting in crosses. Was linking up well with Brennan Johnson before the red card. Johnson needs this support to get him involved in games far more than he has been. Rating: 8
LB Destiny Udogie
Great to see Udogie available to start and he, like the rest of the side, looked very much in control. Playing 73 minutes, as he returns from injury, Udogie was able to show what he brings going forward on the left. Like Porro on the other side, he linked up well with the winger in front of him, Odobert in this case. This was especially true in the first half with a few curling passes around the opposition to set Odobert away. When all are fit, it’s a difficult, but nice, decision for Thomas Frank as to who plays at full-back with Djed Spence available, too. Rating: 8
CB Christian Romero
I was a little surprised that Romero started today, thinking he might be rested with the next game in mind. He played most of the game though and was fully involved and dominant at the back. Romero does tend to get forward at certain times in games and is fairly dangerous when he does so. Seemed desperate to get in on the attacking action and looked like he might score himself, instead setting up João Palhinha’s goal to make it 4-0. Rating: 9
CB Micky van de Ven
Micky defended with ease all game, but it’s his goal that will rightly be talked about. Whenever playing football in the park, the phrase “on your own” usually means everyone else is too tired to help you out and so their tactical advice is “do it all yourself”. Can’t imagine “on your own” is something pro players shout, but if so, Micky’s goal was the perfect time. Not necessarily due to tiredness but simply due to pace, no one was able to keep up with him (teammates or opponents). Running through player after player from the edge of his own area and then a confident finish was amazing to see. 6 goals for the season so far, this the best of the lot. Rating: 10
CM Rodrigo Bentancur
Very calm day for Bentancur. Kept things ticking over in midfield and was given time to do so. After getting pressed off the ball against Chelsea in the last game, Bentancur was able to thrive with the space he was given. He reads the game well and any time opposition attacks did threaten, he was able to intercept or win the ball back. Sat deep with Pape Matar Sarr at times, played a possession game, and controlled the midfield. Rating: 8
CM Pape Matar Sarr
Sarr always bring energy and tireless running, which, along with Bentancur’s play, was too much for our opposition. Particularly when down to 10 men, Sarr’s role was critical, ensuring we kept possession, and him sitting deeper was a main reason we were able to launch so many attacks after Johnson’s red card. Rating: 7
RW Brennan Johnson
Was far more involved in the game than in previous weeks. Miskicked to waste a good chance to set up an easy finish early in the first half, but better to see him at least be in the position to do so. Johnson has too often not been in games at all recently, so getting into these positions is an improvement, even if execution is off. Was then heavily involved as two of the more dramatic incidents in the game revolved around him for different reasons. Scored the opening goal, which was not an easy finish from the angle, then was sent off for a late challenge. I think those red cards are harsh, but he was a long way from the ball and studs raised, so he can’t have too many complaints. Will be suspended for our next Champions League game, but the goal should help his confidence. Rating: 6
AM Xavi Simons
Simons showed his best moments for us since he signed. There are two footnotes of course that he was substituted early for tactical reasons after the red card, and the opposition made it easier for him. However, that shouldn’t discount that we saw good things from Xavi here. A range of passing, as shown by an excellent ball for Johnson’s opening goal, and dribbling ability to attack directly. Set up a great chance for Randal Kolo Muani that should have ended up in the net. Looked frustrated to come off, though given how we played afterwards it should be said that Frank got that tactically correct. A player who I hope starts vs. Man United. Rating: 9
LW Wilson Odobert
Got on the scoresheet and looked to attack all evening. Tried several runs, some of which didn’t come off but kept going. Worked well with Udogie, providing an outlet for attacks and supporting him defensively. Still feels like a player where we will see more from as he develops, but a good performance today. Rating: 7
CF Randal Kolo Muani
Like Simons, this was Muani’s best game for us. Had two great chances in the first half, both of which should have been goals. Was a threat in the second half, too, where he could have scored a couple of times. Showed good composure and touch to bring the ball down and set up Odobert for the second goal. Our best option as striker for the moment, at least until Solanke returns. Rating: 8
Substitutes: Kevin Danso, João Palhinha, Richarlison, Djed Spence, Dane Scarlett
Danso and Spence were relatively untroubled and kept our defensive cohesion well, showing that area of the squad is looking as good as it has done for a while. Richarlison had opportunities and was unlucky with a header and a penalty, both of which hit the bar. Palhinha coming on was an excellent sub tactically by Frank, even if it did mean Xavi coming off. Palhinha seemed to be everywhere, making tackles and instigating attacks. It was a typical display from him and came at the right time after the red card. He also got forward to score our fourth goal. Dane Scarlett came on late and looked dangerous. He really is a player that should be getting minutes if we are to see how he can adapt to the first team. Got involved and generally used his limited time well, including winning a late penalty. Ratings: Kevin Danso (6), João Palhinha (8), Richarlison (6), Djed Spence (6), Dane Scarlett (6)