Paul Pogba and Anthony Martial were in top form as Manchester United continued their unbeaten run under Ole-Gunnar Solskjaer by securing a comfortable 3-0 win over Fulham.
Here are three talking points from this crucial result that saw the Red Devils fire into the top-four.
Manchester United midfield continues to shine
The midfield trifecta of Nemanja Matic, Ander Herrera and Paul Pogba continued their excellent form this weekend by producing yet another dominant performance against the Cottagers.
While Matic offered the physical presence as well as the aggression in the holding midfield role, it was Herrera, who recycled the ball and rotated possession numerous times throughout the course of the game. And finally, it was Pogba (2 goals), who eased United’s transition in the final third with some excellent passing and hold-up play in and around the half-spaces.
This not only restricted the Fulham midfielders from getting a grip on this game but also helped United maintain their relentless attacking momentum.
Yet another atrocious display from Fulham
Fulham had more than one opportunity to claw their way back into the game this afternoon. But, a clumsy attacking display combined with some whimsical defending made sure that the Red Devils maintained their dominance in the game.
Ryan Babel, in particular, was often guilty of taking a series of awful first-touches, which robbed Fulham of the opportunity of initiating numerous counter attacks while Luciano Vietto also missed a golden opportunity in the very first minute of the game.
And as we head towards the final phase of the season, Fulham are sinking further into the relegation scrap, having acquired just seventeen points in 26 matches and are in desperate need of a miraculous turnaround if they are to maintain their top-flight status next season.
Ole-Gunnar Solskjaer’s managerial case strengthens
Manchester United’s form under interim manager Ole-Gunnar Solskjaer has been nothing short of incredible, with the Red Devils securing ten wins out of 11 games in all competitions under the Norwegian.
The 45-year-old has been able to rejuvenate the likes of Pogba, Herrera and Matic, all of who were heavily criticized under Jose Mourinho and are now a key part of Manchester United’s starting lineup.
He has also been able to solidify a baffled defensive unit, although there is still room of improvement on that front while he’s also been quite clever with his team rotations.
And this raises questions as to whether or not the Norwegian should be offered the permanent coaching role at United next season. A lot will probably depend on how the Red Devils fare in their crucial Champions League fixture against PSG next week as the Red Devils brace themselves for arguably their toughest challenge this season.