Manchester United 0-2 Burnley: Hits and Flops | Premier League 2019-2020 

Manchester United v Burnley FC - Premier League
Manchester United v Burnley FC - Premier League

Flop #2 Phil Jones

Manchester United v Burnley FC - Premier League
Manchester United v Burnley FC - Premier League

Phil Jones does not have too many admirers among the United fanbase, with many believing that he has failed to develop into a true leader in the dressing room

The 27-year-old was signed by Sir Alex Ferguson in 2011 from Blackburn and was described as a 'future captain' of the club. But nine years on it looks like those were grandiose claims by the legendary Scotsman, and fans of the club have seemingly accepted that Jones will never rise to the levels expected.

A combination of factors including injuries and poor form have contributed to Jones losing his starting place. But he was the beneficiary of an illness to Victor Lindelof, which saw him handed a rare start against Burnley.

Those expecting him to take his chances were, however, in for a shock. Jones made a number of errors and was beaten far too easily on several occasions.

His most criminal act came in the 38th minute of the match when he gave away a needless free-kick near the center circle. This was particularly unforgivable considering that Wood had nowhere to go to; given the threat Burnley possess from set-pieces, it was an embarrassing error.

The Lancashire side went ahead from the free-kick and from then on, there was no stopping them in their quest for victory.

Hit #2 Nick Pope

Nick Pope made eight saves in the game
Nick Pope made eight saves in the game

A case can be made to consider Nick Pope as the best English goalkeeper in the Premier League, and there have been calls for him to usurp Jordan Pickford as the Three Lions' number one.

Having suffered a long-term injury two years ago, the 27-year-old has done enough to recover for lost time since. And he once again put up a fine performance in the victory over Manchester United.

Pope made a total of eight saves in the match to deny Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood among others. An eighth clean sheet of the campaign was just reward for what was a dominant display between the sticks.

Quick Links