Manchester United have three positives to take despite agonising Middlesbrough FA Cup loss

Manchester United have seen yet another trophy evade them after losing to Middlesbrough in the FA Cup on Friday night. Ralf Rangnick’s side had gone into the game on a high following their narrow 1-0 win over West Ham before the winter break. Yet, on a torrid night at Old Trafford, they ended up throwing away their best chance of claiming silverware.

United took the lead against Middlesbrough through Jadon Sancho.

The England international fired past goalkeeper Joe Lumley after a direct run, netting for just the third time this season in the process.

United were on top throughout the majority of the game but Middlesbrough levelled, with Matt Crooks on target in the 64th minute.

But with neither side able to find a winner, the match then went to penalties.

Anthony Elanga then fluffed his effort from 12 yards, sparking wild celebrations in the Middlesbrough end in the process.

It was a disappointing night for United but, despite the result, there were three positives they’re able to take from the match…

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Fernandes lively

At the start of Rangnick’s reign, the 63-year-old struggled to coax the best from Bruno Fernandes.

Yet while the midfielder squandered some good chances against Boro, especially his one from close range that hit the post, it was a lively, productive showing from the midfielder.

Fernandes is perfect for the pressing game Rangnick wants to deploy, with the former Sporting Lisbon star racing around the pitch with vigour.

His finishing, obviously, needs improvement.

But with Fernandes and Rangnick now aligned, that can only be a positive for the future.

Rangnick speaks out

Speaking after the game, Rangnick admitted he was disappointed at United’s failure to win the game.

“Incredibly disappointed, we should have won and killed off the game in the first half,” he said. “Crossbar, post, missed penalty and numerous chances. It should have been 2-0 or 3-0.

“We conceded a goal which I don’t understand why it stood. He controlled it with his hand.

“In the moment when they scored, it was clear that VAR would not allow this goal to stand.

“We were not well-positioned in that moment, too open and allowed them the counter, we should have won the game.

“Anthony Elanga, anyone can imagine how he is, he is shattered and absolutely disappointed.

“It was the eighth penalty which had all converted.”