Manchester United’s top-four hopes were kicked back into life on Wednesday night with a narrow and hard-fought win over Brentford.
The Red Devils had appeared to be sleepwalking towards the Premier League finishing line, going into the clash with the Bees without a win in three. But Marcus Rashford ’s strike keeps their gap over the chasing pack intact and their dreams of the Champions League clear and present.
David de Gea also played a key role as he recovered from his first-half malaise to deny the visitors with a brilliant stop after the break. For much of the opening 45, the Spaniard looked like he was in need of a wake-up call as his dozy distribution almost gifted Brentford a vital goal.
