Atlético Madrid 1-0 Las Palmas: Player Ratings

Miguel Ángel Moyà, GK: 7

Looked up to the task of replacing Jan Oblak. Made a couple really good saves - including one on Roque Mesa moments before Saúl put Atleti ahead - and looked comfortable in his first league start for 21 months.

Šime Vrsaljko, RB: 8

Outstanding from the Croatian, who continues to demonstrate that he is the real deal. Vrsaljko’s crossing was superb and he gleefully raced up and down the right side, setting up teammates or winning possession. Also, he led the team with 69 touches, underlining his importance in this game. Should really give Diego Simeone something to think about.

Stefan Savic, CB: 7

This was the Montenegrin’s best game in two months. Savic did a good job closing down on Marko Livaja up top; the Croatian had scored or assisted a goal in each of Las Palmas’ previous three games. Savic completed just over 50% of his passes, which has to improve in the new year, but this was an encouraging performance.

Diego Godín, CB: 7

The pharaoh registered the fewest touches of any Atlético outfield player, but spearheaded his side’s efforts in the air and didn't commit a single foul over the 90 minutes.

Lucas Hernández, LB: 6

Sometimes, Lucas could be accused of being too cautious; this guy just doesn't mess up. The young Frenchman held his position well and offered some tasty throw-ins.

Koke, RM: 7

Even as he ceded much of the ground in central midfield to Saúl, Koke was the unquestioned midfield general Saturday. Despite his side’s paltry 30% possession, he created the best chances - through the middle and even from set pieces.

Gabi, CM: 6

More patient and probing on the ball and gave his usual terrific effort in defense. Perhaps guilty of drifting too far to the right at times, opening up space in the middle of the park.

Saúl Ñíguez, CM: 8

Scored an absolute rocket from outside the box to secure the win, but did a lot more than notch his first league goal of the season. Saúl hit an acrobatic effort off the post early in the first half to start his day and looked comfortable, assured and full of energy - perhaps too much at times, as he was guilty of committing several fouls. He was strong in the air and thrived in his best position: as a box-to-box midfielder. Hopefully, this presages a big 2017 for the 22-year-old.

Yannick Carrasco, LM: 5

Frustrating day at the office for Carrasco, who lost the ball a good half-dozen times and never quite got going. He worked hard for the team, though, which will please Simeone.

Antoine Griezmann, FW: 6

The goalless run rolls on - 763 minutes and counting. However, Griezmann was more aggressive going for goal in this game (five shots) and didn't spend so much time playmaking or delegating to others. His work rate and intensity level were much improved from previous weeks as well.

Kévin Gameiro, FW: 5

Gameiro hasn't scored in four games, his longest drought in red and white. He would have had chances Saturday if not for poor positional awareness or a lead-heavy first touch.

Fernando Torres, FW: 5

Entered for Carrasco in the 76th minute. An interesting change from Simeone that allowed Griezmann to drop to a wing. It was El Niño’s first appearance since the disastrous Madrid Derby last month.

Nico Gaitán, LM: N/A

Entered for Gameiro in the 84th minute. Gave his best shot at impressing Cholo with some nice hold-up play as time wound down.

Thomas Partey, CM: N/A

Emtered for Griezmann in the 90th minute. Had a go at Javi Varas almost immediately after coming on; then it really would have been Partey Time.