AMAD DIALLO made it obvious to Ruud van Nistelrooy and incoming manager Ruben Amorim that he wanted to play in the starting lineup.

Manchester United defeated PAOK 2-0, with the 22-year-old providing a bright spark in an otherwise laboured effort.

A soccer player in a snapdragon shirt celebrates. Amad Diallo was outstanding as Manchester United laboured to a 2-0 victory over PAOK. Manchester United won their first European competition in over a year, despite a sluggish start in their Europa League encounter against Paok.

The first half at Old Trafford was low-key.

But after the break, Amad made the difference for the Red Devils with a lopping header across the box that found the far side of the net, then winning the ball back high and curling a shot into the same corner.

Here’s how SunSport’s Phil Thomas rated the United players after Van Nistelrooy’s penultimate game as interim manager.

ANDRE ONANA – 6

One excellent tipover to keep out a Camara half-volley.

However, the rest of the stops were very regular.

NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 6.

Another good, but unspectacular, display.

Every week brings a more steady presence.  

Best free bet sign-up offers for UK bookmakers.

VICTOR LINDELOF – 6 Despite a flat foot in the first half, he remained calm throughout.

I also started some attacks.

A wise old head in the back.

But he was fortunate to get away with going AWOL for one second-half opportunity.

DIOGO DALOT – 4 is a soccer player wearing the number 8 jersey.Diogo Dalot didn’t have his best game, with some sloppy defense.

Usually dependable, but sloppy with so much of what he performed, and his delivery wasn’t terrific either. 

It’s surprising that he wasn’t hooked earlier.

Casemiro – 6 served as the foundation for United’s subsequent efforts.

To be honest, that wasn’t a very good deal.

Manuel Ugarte – 5

Still far from the midfield that United had hoped for.

Distribution is also unsatisfactory. There was no astonishment when I was subbed off.

AMAD – 8 (STAR MAN) A man wearing a red shirt with a snapdragon on it. Amad has built a case for starting at the weekend. A poster for a soccer game between amada diallo and paok salonika.

Impressive running, strong defense, critical first goal, and astonishing second.

United’s top player by far.

BRUNO FERNANDES -7

I made several incredible passes while constantly looking to create.

At least someone was!

ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 6

Close with a header and a few of good runs, but mostly a quiet night.

Hooked.

RASMUS HOJLUND – 5 is a soccer player sporting a red shirt with a snapdragon logo.Rasmus Hojlund struggled to make an impact in the game, with only one early header and few opportunities to chase down balls.