Keane praises a 'proper United performance'

The Irish club legend and former captain was on punditry duty in the Sky Sports studio on Saturday evening, to witness an all-action display in the derby that was full of desire, heart and togetherness. 

Marcus Rashford opened the scoring on 23 minutes with a nerveless penalty before Anthony Martial doubled the advantage six minutes later, as part of a dominant first-half performance from United. 

Naturally, the home side fought back in the second half and scored a late consolation strike via the head of substitute Nicolas Otamendi, but the Reds held firm to secure three Premier League points. 

Saturday’s victory over the champions rounded off an excellent week for Solskjaer’s in-form side, following another important win over a resurgent Tottenham Hotspur team at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

“I absolutely did not see this coming,” admitted Keane on Sky Sports. “It was fantastic - a proper United performance. Lots of bravery and personality. They were outstanding.

“I don't think beating Tottenham was a big deal at home, but that win [over City] will give the players a lot of confidence as they have been criticised - nobody likes to be criticised.

“I really enjoyed watching them, it's what United is all about. But the key is to be consistent, week in, week out. Hopefully these young players will pick up on that.”

CONSISTENCY IS THE CHALLENGE

United have excelled in matches against the Premier League’s elite clubs this season, earning wins over Chelsea, Leicester City, Tottenham and Man City, as well as draws with Arsenal and Liverpool. 

The problems have occurred when facing the so-called ‘smaller’ clubs across the division and, as Keane outlined at the weekend, Ole’s flourishing Reds must now become much more consistent. 

“He's trying to build a bond with the supporters,” said Roy. “You go to Man United to win. It's a huge credit to Ole. Man United's always been about young players but they need more consistency.”

The Reds are next in action on Thursday in a UEFA Europa League tie against AZ Alkmaar, before hosting Everton at the Theatre of Dreams on Sunday. 

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