Jump directly to the content

JOSE MOURINHO may have pulled off a tactical masterclass against Liverpool.

The Special One appeared to scribble a plan to hunt for a second ball off Romelu Lukaku on his notepad before direct football undid the Reds defence.

 Jose Mourinho scribbles in his notebook as he takes in United's clash with Liverpool
5
Jose Mourinho scribbles in his notebook as he takes in United's clash with Liverpool

Moments after the United chief completed his note, David De Gea's long-ball was flicked into the path of Rashford by Lukaku.

His header sent the England international racing through to curl in at the far post.

And the towering striker's noggin was involved in the build-up to United's second as Rashford celebrated his first start of 2018 with another solid finish.

Before the North West deby, Mourinho singled out Lukaku for special praise.

 TV cameras followed Mourinho as he worked his magic in the dugout
5
TV cameras followed Mourinho as he worked his magic in the dugout
 Jose Mourinho's note was picked up by Sky cameras and appears to mention a second-ball and 'Rom'
5
Jose Mourinho's note was picked up by Sky cameras and appears to mention a second-ball and 'Rom'

He said: "He is an important guy for me. He is one of the guys that I trust. I love the attitude and the character.

"Against Crystal Palace, after our third goal, I told him [to play as a] central defender in a back five with Smalling and Lindelof because I could not make any more changes.


NORTH WEST DERBY Man Utd vs Liverpool LIVE SCORE: Latest updates from the bitter rivals' showdown at Old Trafford


"So when I say to a striker, 'Go there and do that job for me', then he is a sergeant. He is a guy that you can trust. His attitude is phenomenal.

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho said he was 'scared' Gary Neville would influence the referee at half time
 Marcus Rashford scored two quickfire goals to put United in command
5
Marcus Rashford scored two quickfire goals to put United in commandCredit: AFP or licensors
 Romelu Lukaku was involved in the build-up for both strikes
5
Romelu Lukaku was involved in the build-up for both strikesCredit: PA:Empics Sport

"That is why I told you many times that, for me, it is not just about the goals he scores, it is about what he brings to the team.

"And he brings to the team exactly that spirit."

Saturday Round-Up: Watch the best action from Saturday's Premier League games
Topics