Based on his recent performances, Manchester United's summer-long pursuit of Manuel Ugarte was worth persisting with.

Back in the midfield after being suspended for last Monday night's 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United at Old Trafford, the Uruguayan played a key role in helping United earn a 2-2 draw against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday afternoon.

Partnering Kobbie Mainoo, who was also recalled to the starting XI by head coach Ruben Amorim, Ugarte produced a stellar performance, helping United put the brakes on their four-game losing run.

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Tasked with helping Mainoo combat the threat of Liverpool's mobile midfield trio of Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister and Curtis Jones, the 23-year-old was excellent. He produced the aggression United have so often missed in the engine room this season.

As well as covering plenty of ground, the midfield enforcer, who joined United from Paris Saint-Germain on the final day of last summer's transfer window, won four tackles and completed two clearances. He was also efficient with the ball, boasting a passing accuracy of 88 per cent.

Although his performance will not create headlines in the same way the goalscoring contributions of Lisandro Martinez and Amad did, Ugarte's contribution was vital to United's achievement of picking up a point at Anfield for the second season running. His performance levels have been going up through the gears in recent weeks and he was missed against Newcastle.

His profile as a defensive-minded midfielder, specifically someone of his age with room for growth, is what United have been sorely lacking over the years, meaning it was very easy to understand why the club was so determined to sign him back in the summer. At the time of his unveiling, former United sporting director Dan Ashworth lauded Ugarte's addition to the squad, describing him as one of the best midfield enforcers in the business.

"Signing Manuel was another of our primary targets for this summer," said Ashworth, speaking back in August. "He is among the very best ball-winning midfield players in the world and has an excellent record at both club and international level.

"His qualities, experience and passion will be a great complement to our strong group of midfielders. Manuel is a player we've watched closely, and we are excited to see the positive impact he will make on the pitch and in the dressing room as we continue to strive for success."

On reflection, Ashworth's summary was bang on the money. Ugarte's performances, particularly since Erik ten Hag was sacked in late-October, have gone up through the gears.

He was excellent against Wolves on Boxing Day, producing four tackles in the first half alone. United have been crying out for a player of his mould in the engine room for a long time.

As a defensive specialist, the onus is on Ugarte to prevent opposition attacks and break play up in the middle. His tally of 21 tackles across his last five starts highlights how important he is becoming.

Ashworth's Old Trafford stay might have been over almost as quickly as it started but he was right to help United sign who he described as a "primary target" in the summer.