Veteran Swede forward, Zlatan Ibrahimovic got his spell roaring at Old Trafford tonight as he struck twice; one from a header and the other from the spot to ensure José Mourinho’s United retain top spot from Match day 2 of the English Premier League.
For the Saint, losing midfielder Oriol Romeu to an early injury did not help them, but having won 1-0 on each of their last two visits to Old Trafford, they rarely looked likely to extend that run.
But, it was Pogba who had the first sight of goal after 12 minutes, though his shot from the edge of the penalty area lacked power and was comfortably saved by Fraser Forster.
However, there was plenty of evidence to suggest that Mourinho was right to spend so much money to bring him back to Old Trafford. His display was a positive one, with more touches and more passes in the opposing half than any team-mate.
Having scored in the Community Shield win over Leicester City and United’s Premier League weekend victory at Bournemouth, Ibrahimovic went into the match in fine form.
Ibrahimovic put United into the lead after 36 minutes, the striker rising highest in the penalty area to thump in a header from Wayne Rooney’s precise right wing cross.
After Dusan Tadic had a goal ruled out shortly after half-time, Ibrahimovic sealed the points from the penalty spot when Jordy Clasie brought down Luke Shaw in the box.
Intriguingly, Ibrahimovic appears to have bumped captain Wayne Rooney from penalty duties. He was quick to take on the responsibility when United were awarded a spot-kick; his finish was his 25th successful conversion from his last 28 attempts.
As they try to continue with their 100% unbeaten run, Manchester United have a Saturday trip to Hull City next weekend, while Southampton who o are yet to find a win under new manager will travel away from home to play Sunderland on the same day.
