Chris Smalling was the difference this afternoon for Manchester United
The defender scored a spectacular goal from a well rehearsed corner routine to give United a two goal cushion at Vicarage Road this afternoon. Watford pulled one back in the second half but it wasn’t enough, as José Mourinho’s side held on for all three points.
Despite being ignored by England manager Gareth Southgate due to his limitations on the ball, Smalling remains a favourite of Mourinho’s. He is one of Mourinho’s most trusted defenders, although in fairness he faces very weak competition.
Nevertheless, he had a good game today, pulling off a stunning strike that most people would have doubted was within his ability.
But it was his new haircut that dominated the conversation around Smalling this afternoon. Even Mourinho couldn’t resist commenting on it.
In his post-match press conference, Mourinho was asked about Smalling’s goal, to which he replied: “The only thing I don’t like about Chris in this moment is his hair.”
Jose Mourinho asked about Chris Smalling’s goal. Replied: “The only thing I don’t like about Chris in this moment is his haircut”.
— Rob Dawson (@RobDawsonESPN) September 15, 2018
Considering everything Mourinho has said in the past about his own players, that is a compliment. If that’s the biggest criticism he can make of you, you’re doing very well. Ask Luke Shaw.