Reds show Bailly love on social media

Bruno Fernandes played the through ball for our no.10 to net the only goal of the game, while Marcus's fellow forwards never stopped working in trying to find a breakthrough.

Midfielders Nemanja Matic and Paul Pogba kept things solid and goalkeeper David De Gea had to make some good saves to prevent the visitors from taking the lead.

The Spaniard claimed a fourth league clean sheet of the season at Old Trafford and, despite his sharp reflexes, much of that was down to the defence in front of him. In particular, Eric Bailly, who was starting a third consecutive game for the first time since March 2018, shone for the Reds after overcoming various injury problems during the early months of the campaign.

The Ivorian kept calm and composed, as he did in helping shut out Everton in the Carabao Cup last week.

Bailly made a team-high three clearances and four interceptions, including an absolutely vital intervention in the first half when it looked as though the rapid Adama Traore would be put through on goal.

Eric also clocked up the quickest sprint of any Red, at 33.33 kph and eventually came fourth in our Official Man-of-the-Match poll, behind only Rashford, Fernandes and De Gea.

However, two Reds have debated that assessment.

Bailly posted on Instagram after the game, saying: ‘A clean sheet and a victory. Good way to end a year to forget. We are coming for you, 2021.’

Team-mate Fernandes soon dropped into the replies, making it clear that Bailly was his standout performer by commenting: 'My man of the match' - a viewpoint Juan Mata agreed with. You should have checked the Official App after full-time then, lads!

The Reds' love-in for our no.3 wasn't finished there.

Victor Lindelof, who may well have played in Bailly's stead, had it not been for injury, replied with four strong-arm emojis.

Late substitute Scott McTominay also dropped in, with applause and love heart icons.

Well done, Eric!