Matic the next Robson?

Romelu Lukaku will grab the headlines with his two goals but we must not overlook the importance of Nemanja Matic to Manchester United’s victory, Martin Keown told the Daily Mail.

That was the best midfield performance of the Premier League’s opening weekend — has there been a better debut from a left-footed midfield player at Old Trafford since Bryan Robson in 1981?
He oozed class — assured on the ball, calm under pressure. He kept feeding the quality players around him, taking 89 touches, the most of any United player.

Out of possession, he positioned himself in front of the back four, allowing Paul Pogba to roam forward.

At West Ham goal-kicks he saved the centre backs from their defensive duties, parking himself in front of the target men and winning the aerial battles.

Matic is a magnet to danger but is quick to return to his position. Watching him is like watching a tennis player returning to the centre of the court after each shot.

It is astonishing that Chelsea let him go. As he showed on Saturday, he has strengthened their rivals.