Manchester United struggle but register a win over Shakhtar Donetsk

Phil Jones scored the winning goal for United

Manchester United played out a 1-0 victory against Ukrainian champions Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League, leading them to top their group and remain unbeaten so far in the competition.

David Moyes has got it right in the European competition this season and led his team unscathed through a pretty tricky group. The Scot has been under some harsh and unjust criticism after United suffered two straight home defeats but has proved that he is a force to reckon with on the European stage. Reinforcements in the next two transfer windows will go a long way for the former Everton manager.

The Red Devils were without Evra, Smalling, Fellaini and Carrick and looked shaky in the first half. Rio Ferdinand started the game alongside Jonny Evans but looked extremely vulnerable in the first half. The 35-year-old is getting slower with age and cannot cope with a fast paced team, which was evident in the Shakhtar game where the speedy forwards constantly left the centre back gasping for air.

Ferdinand is one of the best defenders United have had but won’t be able to carry on much longer. Rio and Vidic are not the impregnable fortress they once were but will go down as one of the best defensive pairings in the world.

Buttner made some interceptions and completed most of his passes but will have to work much harder if he wants to displace Evra and become first choice left-back. Rafael is slowly getting back to his brilliant self and supported the attack well against Shakhtar. The young Brazilian may need a game or two before he gets back to his best.

Ryan Giggs gave a forgettable performance in midfield and was virtually non-existent for United against Shakhtar. The 40-year-old did not pass the ball very well and were outclassed by the young Brazilians of Shakhtar. The Welshman has been an excellent servant for United and will never be forgotten but should step down at the end of the season to give younger players a chance.

Tom Cleverley came on for Giggs and instantly changed the game, proving why a fresh pair of legs is vital against such teams. Phil Jones was once again on the top of his game in the midfield role and blasted a volley passed the Shakhtar goalkeeper sending them back to the Europa League.

Adnan Januzaj, who made his Champions League debut against Shaktar, gave a promising performance except for the sloppy pass in the opening minutes which almost led to Shaktar scoring, other than that it was a night to remember for the young Belgian.

Ashley Young gave another disappointing performance and wasted a chance to score for United. The England international did not help his cause in the game and may be shipped out in the upcoming transfer window in January. Shinji Kagawa played in his preferred position behind Wayne Rooney and was one of the few players who looked at ease. The Japanese playmaker did not create any real chances but was good with his passing throughout the game.

Wayne Rooney had a good game and was unlucky not to score against the opposition. The striker had two good chances with a lobby and a free-kick but they did not convert into goals. The Englishman continues to be one of the most influential Manchester United players always coming to their rescue when things look bleak.

Robin van Persie came on in the later stages of the game but could not manage to score. The Dutchman was out for the last couple of games and may need a little more time before he is back to usual goalscoring self. The forward has scored ten goals so far this season.

David Moyes has some of the weight lifted off his overburdened shoulders and has passed his Champions League test with flying colours. The manager will have to dip into the market for some creative players that United lack that the most. Manchester United will know who they next face in the tournament on Monday but until then they should focus all their energy on beating Aston Villa.