download video: Manchester United 4 – 1 Leicester City [Premier League] Highlights 2016/17 – Jose Mourinho’s side turned on the style to batter the Premier League champions at Old Trafford, with their record signing scoring his first goal
Crisis? What crisis? At the end of a long week which saw Jose Mourinho come out fighting against the ‘Einsteins’ of the British media, Manchester United bounced back to form with a crushing 4-1 victory over Premier League champions Leicester City.
With Wayne Rooney dropped to the bench, this was a statement result in more ways than one. Not only was this United proving that reports of their demise had been greatly exaggerated, but it was also a demonstration of what they are capable of in the absence of their out-of-form captain slowing the pace of their play in the final third.
Paul Pogba had a major say too, netting his first United goal to cap a five-minute spell which saw the home side net three times as they completely overran Claudio Ranieri’s outfit. The verve, energy and urgency on display following Chris Smalling’s opener from a Daley Blind corner was worthy of the massive half-time lead.
The Frenchman grew into the game after a slow start and had a huge influence on their increased tempo which saw the front four thrive. His clever ball through for Jesse Lingard was flicked to Juan Mata to double United’s lead, then Marcus Rashford pounced after a demoralised Leicester defence had switched off at a short corner.
Pogba’s ability on the ball and marauding gait helped to stretch the Foxes regularly and, by the break, the champions were gasping for air. This was all a far cry from the static, smothered attacking performances which had preceded in the presence of Rooney.
No comments: