Manchester United player ratings: Just how bad was Angel Di Maria to be withdrawn at half-time?

Manchester United 2 Sunderland 0

(Getty Images)

Manchester United claimed a narrow victory over Sunderland as Wes Brown received his marching orders following a case of mistaken identity not seen since Kieran Gibbs was infamously sent off against Chelsea.

Referee Roger East sent off Brown for the foul on Falcao - even though it was John O'Shea who brought the striker down.

The Colombian did brilliantly well to turn in on goal after controlling a pass behind him, but as he shaped to shoot from point blank range, he was bundled to ground by O'Shea with Brown in close attendance.

O'Shea clearly fouls Falcao (Getty Images)

O'Shea pleaded with the official in defence of his teammate, but Brown was issued his marching orders nonetheless, and Rooney stepped up to fire how from 12 yards. The England skipper than scored again to end the contest.

Angel Di Maria was hauled off at half-time by Louis van Gaal after a terrible performance.

United move up to third in the Premier League, two points clear of Arsenal having played a game more.