Pereira's Fine Full Debut

Andreas Pereira marked his first competitive start for Manchester United with a goal in the Capital One Cup win over Ipswich Town.

Always capable of hitting the net from set-pieces, the creative talent crashed home a free-kick in front of the Stretford End to bag the second goal in a 3-0 victory over the Championship club.

The exciting 19-year-old impressed on the summer tour, scoring a header against San Jose Earthquakes, but has had to be patient for a chance as this was his first involvement this term.

Included from the outset, he hit a post inside the opening two minutes but the flag had already been raised for offside. Clearly not overawed, the confident midfielder had a stinging drive held by Bartosz Bialkowski a few moments later and dragged another effort wide with only 12 minutes on the clock.

Performing out wide on the left, he linked well with Marouane Fellaini and became embroiled in a fascinating battle with Town's Josh Emmanuel. Some neat skills looked to have deceived the full-back after Fellaini picked Pereira out but the defender recovered to muscle his opponent off the ball.

His big moment came bang on the hour mark as Juan Mata allowed the younger man to take over free-kick duty on the edge of the box and Pereira responded with a superbly-flighted effort over the wall and past Bialkowski.

Displaying even more authority and confidence, he showed off his control and vision as United started to enjoy themselves. Fouled by Jonathan Parr after racing through on goal, prompting the only booking of the game, he went very close to doubling his tally when a deflected shot was excellently repelled by Bialkowski.

By moving into a more central role following Memphis Depay's introduction off the bench, he illustrated his adaptability.

After making his debut as a substitute against Tottenham Hotspur last March, which he described as like being part of a computer game, Pereira has performed well for Brazil's Under-20 and Under-23 teams and deserved his opportunity.

Following the signing of a new contract in May, Louis van Gaal indicated the teenager had the talent to become an integral member of the first team and this was another major step towards that goal.