Three things we learnt from Manchester United’s 2-1 victory over Middlesbrough

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Manchester United recorded their fifth successive Premier League victory – but only after two late goals ensured they avoided a major upset at the hands of Middlesbrough. Grant Leadbitter had given the visitors a shock second-half lead at Old Trafford and they looked like walking away with all three points until Anthony Martial equalised on 85 minutes. United completed a dramatic turnaround with their second goal in as many minutes, thanks to £90 million man Paul Pogba. Here are three things we learnt from another extraordinary Premier League encounter.

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United are forging a never-say-die spirit

They may have the most expensively assembled squad in English football, but Manchester United can not rely on talent alone to get over the line. They also need the heart and spirit to win ugly when matches aren’t going to plan. This was such an occasion. United had dominated proceedings with 65 per cent of the possession, but found themselves a goal behind on what was turning out to be a frustrating afternoon. With time running out, they had to remain patient but also keep believing that an opportunity would arise. Eventually, they got their rewards with two goals in quick succession. Yes, the players who scored happened to cost in the region of a combined £140 million. But this result underlined the spirit with which United are playing under Jose Mourinho. Winning easy is one thing, but coming up trumps when the pressure is on is quite another. This was a real test of Manchester United’s character and they passed it with flying colours.