To the Victor must go spoils

VICTOR LINDELOF is determined to build on an excellent summer to show Jose Mourinho he does not need a new centre-back.

The Swede married his fiancee Maja and impressed as his country reached the World Cup quarter-finals.

Now, after a hesitant first season at United following his move from Benfica, Lindelof wants to show he can become a regular this season. The 24-year-old started alongside Eric Bailly in the win over Leicester.

“I feel great,” he said. “I had a good summer; first I got married and had an amazing time, then I played in the World Cup, which was a great experience.

“And after a good rest I’m back here and ready for what’s to come. It’s always nice to get a good start. It gives you more confidence and you can relax more. It’s a very tough league with a lot of great teams. Every game matters.

“We have to get that winning mentality in every game, in every situation.”

Atletico Madrid star Diego Godin insists he did not use interest from United to secure an improved contract.

United were interested in adding an experienced defender before the window shut last week and put together an offer for Godin. But he stayed in Madrid and United believe their interest was leveraged into an improved contract for the 32-yearold Uruguayan.

Godin denied this was the case.

“I have not extended my contract,” he said. “I saw that news came out but I don’t know where it came from.”

Godin joined Atletico in 2010 and has been a mainstay of a side who have been Champions League finalists twice.