Ranking Manchester United's 5 best players against Villarreal in the UEFA Champions League

#3 Jesse Lingard

Lingard changed the game after coming on

Super sub Jesse Lingard is making a habit of having a huge impact (sometimes negative) on Manchester United games whenever he's brought on. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looks like he's content with the Englishman being his go-to player off the bench, and the midfielder is shining in this role.

Lingard was brought on in the 88th minute of the game and completely changed the momentum of play. The Englishman was immediately in the thick of things as he saw his shot saved at the near post. His pace and movement completely overwhelmed Villarreal's defense.

Lingard then provided a brilliant assist as he deftly cushioned back Cristiano Ronaldo's header for the forward to score the winner. His performance is sure to cause Solskjaer a few selection headaches in the future.

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#2 Bruno Fernandes

Fernandes in action for Manchester United

Bruno Fernandes was Manchester United's biggest attacking threat on the night. The midfielder had been scrutinized all week for his penalty miss against Aston Villa, but hit back at his critics with a strong performance against Villarreal.

Fernandes was at the heart of every Manchester United attack, constantly trying to find his teammates in and around the box. The midfielder created four chances on the night, the most by any player on the pitch. He was also not afraid to shoot from distance, going close in the second half with a rasping shot.

The midfielder assisted Alex Telles' wonderful goal as he drifted a free-kick to the edge of the area for the Brazilian to volley in. Fernandes should have some of his confidence returned after this display.

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#1 David de Gea

David De Gea was impregnable in goal for Manchester United

Manchester United's savior on the night, David De Gea, rolled back the years with his performance against Villarreal. If not for the Spaniard, Manchester United could have truly been humiliated in the game.

The Spaniard denied Danjuma, Yeremi and Alcacer certain goals in the first half with some wonderful saves. He also bailed out his defense on multiple occasions with his reflexes and handling.

In the second half, De Gea produced a spectacular double save from Boulaye Dia to keep Manchester United in the game.

The Spaniard has had his doubters over the last few years, but this performance should be enough to silence his critics for the time being at least.