Manchester United 1-0 Watford: 5 Talking Points as Red Devils make FA Cup 2020/21 fourth round

#3 Captain Scott McTominay delivers for the Red Devils

Manchester United v Watford - FA Cup Third Round

Given the Captain's armband for the match, Scott McTominay delivered a worthy performance. The midfielder scored the only goal of the game and secured his team's passage to the fourth round of this season's FA Cup.

The goal was McTominay's first-ever goal in the competition. Moreover, his two clearances off Ismaila Sarr's crosses late in the first half were crucial in maintaining United's lead going into the break.

Not only that, he was pivotal for his side throughout the match, breaking up Watford's play, putting in tackles and making interceptions.

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#2 Eric Bailly's injury curse continues

Eric Bailly

Eric Bailly suffered an injury right at the end of the first half. The Ivorian center-back went flat down on the pitch after colliding with goalkeeper Dean Henderson just before half time.

Bailly only recently recovered from a muscle injury, and was slowly getting to his best. But, unfortunately, the injury leaves the defender on the treatment table yet again.

Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer provided a seemingly positive update on Bailly's injury after the match. “There was no concussion,” he told ManUtd.com. “Apparently it was his neck – a sore neck. But he couldn't carry on, so let's check on him tomorrow.”

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#1 Bruno Fernandes makes United tick

Bruno Fernandes

Bruno Fernandes's impact at Manchester United has been exceptional. And it's clear that the Red Devils aren't quite the same side without the Portuguese.

The FA Cup encounter was one such occassion where the highly-influencial midfielder was rested, and the effects of his absence were evident. Despite keeping the ball well, Solskjaer's men failed to create telling chances.

Having contributed to nearly 70% of Manchester United's goal tally this season, there is clearly a significant drop in the quality of their overall play when Fernandes is not on the teamsheet.

However, now well rested, the Portuguese would be fresh again to help his side in an important round of upcoming Premier League fixtures.