Marouane Fellaini's Manchester United Debut Must Be Considered a Success

Manchester United's biggest summer signing, Marouane Fellaini wasn't in the starting lineup for Saturday's comfortable 2-0 win over Crystal Palace at Old Trafford, but that didn't stop the ultra-talented Belgian midfielder from making a successful debut for the Red Devils.

David Moyes brought Fellaini on for the final half hour of action on Saturday, and although the 25-year-old didn't score or assist, he did threaten the Eagles' defense at times from his deep-lying role. 

After coming on for Anderson in the 62nd minute, Fellaini drew a foul, won two aerial duels and put a powerful shot on goal that required a tremendous knee save from Crystal Palace goalkeeper Julian Speroni.

He finished with a match rating of 6.78, according to WhoScored.com.

With more time to adjust to his new teammates and more time on the pitch, Fellaini will be even better. His versatility sets him apart and is what will earn him a major role at Old Trafford. Whether Moyes is utilizing him as an attacking midfielder behind the striker or deep in a defensive role, he's sure to get excellent production from his newest star.

Fellaini's size is a huge asset on both ends of the pitch as well, and he showed glimpses of that against Crystal Palace, winning challenges in the air and providing a critical defensive presence.

Of course, it will be much more difficult for Fellaini to score from his defensive spot. But the United attack is doing just fine and was solid on Saturday. With Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney threatening at the top of the lineup, Fellaini is best suited roaming as a defensive midfielder. 

He's even admitted in the past that he prefers to play in a defensive role.

As long as he's holding down that spot moving forward, United's attack will only benefit as players like Michael Carrick, Rooney and others won't have to focus so much on giving chase defensively and on closing gaps. 

Manchester United supporters only received a sample of Fellaini this weekend, but he certainly didn't disappoint in his brief outing. While it remains to be seen how he will fare in a starting role, there's no denying that his debut for the Red Devils was a success. 

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