Manchester United returned to winning ways with a comprehensive 3-0 win over Southampton at St Mary’s Stadium on Saturday.
Andre Onana saved a first-half Cameron Archer spot-kick after Diogo Dalot’s clumsy challenge gave the Saints a chance to take the lead – but from there, United took control and started to dominate proceedings.
Matthijs de Ligt headed home an inviting Bruno Fernandes cross to give the Reds the lead before Marcus Rashford curled in a lovely second from the edge of the box.
Substitute Alejandro Garnacho added some gloss to the scoreline with a brilliant finish into the roof of the net to give Erik ten Hag’s men a welcome victory.
Here are five talking points from a profitable day down south.
Matthijs de Ligt answers his critics
De Ligt came in for heavy criticism after a perceived below-par performance for the Netherlands during the recent international break.
However, the Dutchman was superb on the south coast on Saturday – putting in a classy defensive display and notching his first goal for the club with the vital opener.
It will no doubt be a confidence-boosting moment for the former Ajax and Bayern Munich man, and it was satisfying to see the 25-year-old put in such a commanding performance alongside centre-half partner Lisandro Martínez.
Marcus Rashford gets back among the goals
Rashford’s lack of form has been one of the most discussed issues at Old Trafford – stretching back to last season with the forward struggling to make an impression on the side.
Having been left out of another England squad for the aforementioned international break, Rashford put his time to good use by doing some extra training with a private coach.
The 26-year-old forward has had a quiet start to the campaign – but he really burst into life against the Saints – firing in a great goal and looking more confident in himself.
The goal will mean a lot to the Manchester United man, and the hope now is that he can rediscover some of the form that saw him bag 30 goals in 2022-23.
Andre Onana eases the pressure with big save
Another player who has been under a bit of pressure from the United fanbase is Cameroonian goalkeeper Onana.
The shot-stopper conceded some soft goals in the defeat to Liverpool before the international break, leaving some to question his suitability to occupy the role at United.
However, the former Inter Milan man stepped up when his side needed him at the weekend and produced a game-changing penalty save to deny Archer.
It was a great stop which proved to be the catalyst for the Red Devils, and hopefully, Onana can carry this form forward and extinguish any lingering doubts about his future.
Midfield call pays off for Erik ten Hag
The manager made a big call before kick-off, handing Christian Eriksen his first start, with the under-fire Casemiro dropping to the bench.
Many expected new boy Manuel Ugarte to get the nod to start in midfield, having played twice for his country during the internationals.
But, having only arrived back in Manchester on Thursday, Ten Hag decided against throwing the Uruguayan straight into the fray.
Starting Eriksen alongside Kobbie Mainoo – both ball-playing midfielders – was a risk, but after a ropey opening period, the pair excelled, and United controlled the game.
Easing Ugarte in is absolutely a smart move from the gaffer, and will hopefully pay dividends.
Zirkzee impressive despite missing chances
Joshua Zirkzee produced arguably his best performance since his summer move from Bologna.
The Dutch forward’s link-up play, vision and fluidity on the ball were stand-out aspects of a fruitful afternoon for the 20-time English champions.
He did, however, miss a couple of good opportunities to get on the score-sheet, and will need to be more clinical in front of goal.
The 23-year-old’s anticipation and ability to drift into the right position is a great sign, and on another day he would have come away with a goal or two. If he can work on finishing off those chances then United will have a huge asset on their hands.
So, what did you make of Manchester United’s impressive win over Southampton?
Let us know in the comments or across our social channels.
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