Manchester United’s 3-2 victory at Southampton moves them to within two points of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table.
A good result, but far from perfect for Louis van Gaal. Here’s five things their win showed us.
Daley Blind is not a permanent solution at centre half
A left back for van Gaal in the 2014 World Cup, a defensive midfielder for much of last year’s campaign, Daley Blind now finds himself at the centre of Manchester United’s defence alongside Chris Smalling.
Blind has been praised for his anticipation in other performances but found it tough on the south coast. He was found lacking physically up against Graziano Pellè, while a lack of pace allowed Sadio Mane to cause problems.
Anthony Martial looks a lot of money well spent
Those who dismissed Martial’s finish against Liverpool as a fluke may well have been silenced as he showed the same cool head as he did at Old Trafford last weekend to add two more goals to his Premier League tally.
At just 19 years of age, the Frenchman’s strength will cause many Premier League defenders problems as the season progresses and his speed will make opponents think twice about pushing too far up against this United team.
Memphis Depay is still off the pace
His performances in Europe have offered a glimpse of his potential, but Memphis Depay’s league performances have so far underwhelmed. Juan Mata was on hand to add United’s third after Depay’s shot hit the inside of a post, but this moment aside, the Dutchman was largely ineffective both from open play and with his set pieces.
Marcos Rojo needs to improve at left back
In fairness to Argentine he still lacks match fitness, but Marcos Rojo’s performance shows that he needs to improve if he is to continue at left back.
Rojo afforded James Ward-Prowse too much space, in the first half especially, and this ultimately led to Southampton’s opening goal.
David de Gea yet again earns United the points
As was the case on many occasions last season, David de Gea got his team over the line. At 2-1, a terrific reaction save at his near post prevented Jose Fonte from equalising, and a string of saves late on allowed United to preserve their 3-2 lead.
Although De Gea may get his move to Real Madrid in 12 months, Louis van Gaal is benefiting from having the Spaniard’s services for another year.
Fans complained and complained but signing Martial and not letting go of De Gea was excellent deadline day business by Manchester United
— Elko Born (@Elko_B) September 20, 2015
