Premier League 2017/18: Five talking points from gameweek 6

Modified Sep 26, 2017 06:57 GMT

Manchester City v Crystal Palace - Premier League

#2 Manchester United show first signs of weakness

The Red Devils were a tad lucky to keep three points from the encounter

Every international athlete who has seen and experienced incredible, yet consistent performances in a sport will always emphasize the importance of the "ugly" win. The victory helps you detect your weaknesses without having to pay for the same. It instils confidence within you and helps raise your deflated spirit.

It looks like Manchester United have had excellent bargains, not only in the transfer window earlier this summer, but also in their initial fixtures of the season.

Manchester United had an ugly, yet effective outing at Southampton, which brings their record to five victories, one draw, five clean sheets and 17 goals in this season.

Jose Mourinho's side has looked absolutely clinical ever since they took the field against a hapless West Ham defence in its first match of the league this year. Since then, they have rolled past opponents with minimal exertion.

However, the team showed its first sign of weakness in the Premier League this weekend.

It must be noted that midfielder Paul Pogba missed the action due to injury this week and his absence was certainly felt on the field by Valencia and Co. It felt as though a leading character was missing from a powerful theatrical performance.

However, the rest of the cast stood up when it mattered and did not let the 1-0 become 1-1, like they did so often last season. Southampton, who have had a series of tight results this season, tested the United defence pretty frequently, more so in the second half. Mario Lemina, in particular, was exquisite with his timing.

Romelu Lukaku scored his eighth goal in as many appearances early in the match. His strike was forceful enough to fly all the way to Manchester with three points in the kitty.