THE REAL MOURINHO IS BACK
Defensive masterclass and touchline tantrum ...that’s the Jose we love!
FOR those who hoped Jose Mourinho had transformed from pragmatist to poet in the space of one summer came a reminder of the Manchester United manager’s true nature.
United’s avalanche of goals at the beginning of this campaign might have suggested a new outlook, releasing the handbrake in the throwback traditions of legendary bosses Alex Ferguson and Matt Busby.
Yet we should know by now that Mourinho does not do sentiment. Not when there are matches to win and titles to claim.
This was a trademark Mourinho away victory: well-organised, strong defensively, admirable execution of a game plan and some touchline amateur dramatics.
‘Amazing points,’ enthused Mourinho. ‘Honestly, I felt Southampton were strong. I felt their manager was enthusiastic, excited. We had good solidarity, organisation and spirit.’
Mourinho did say he would prefer a 5-0 win, but the masochist in him took pleasure in this triumph, perhaps more than in the big wins United have taken this season.
He ended this game as the ultimate touchline showman, gesticulating to his players, dragging them back into shape time after time as Southampton turned up the heat. Eventually it was too much for the officials, as a half-astep encroachment on to the field resulted in his dismissal.
This was deep into stoppage time, as Southampton awaited their final chance from their final corner. Mourinho stymied their momentum, shaking hands with every member of Southampton’s coaching staff before making his exit and delaying the set-piece.
But he is unlikely to face action from the FA over the sending-off, even though he appeared to collide with fourth official Mike Jones. It is understood Mourinho was not abusive to the officials and did not confront them after the game.
The Southampton corner itself came to nothing, the final whistle blew and the response of United’s players said it all. Romelu Lukaku punched one fist into another repeatedly and collapsed in a heap on the floor. Goalkeeper David de Gea embraced the outstanding centre-half pairing of Eric Bailly and Phil Jones.
Last season, it took United until the second week of December to earn the five clean sheets they already have this time around.
Southampton have now failed to score in nine of their last 10 home games, yet Mauricio Pellegrino’s side were impressive here.
They pinned United back during a second-half onslaught. United earned only 29.7 per cent possession and failed to win a corner during the second period.
United scored after 20 minutes. A splendid, patient, 17-pass move ended when an Ashley Young cross was met powerfully in the air by Lukaku. Fraser Forster denied him but the Belgian striker pounced on the follow-up.
Meanwhile, United will watch CCTV footage to identify fans who sang the controversial song about Lukaku at the game, despite pleas not to.
The club also confirmed they will support any action against the perpetrators.