Slog for Marcus Rashford but Juan Mata delivers for stretched Manchester United

Manchester United 1 Watford 0: Louis van Gaal perhaps had a point earlier this week when he warned Marcus Rashford the hard work is only just beginning.

After scoring twice on his senior debut against Midtjylland last week, and then twice more against Arsenal on Sunday, the teenage striker must learn to cope with being a marked man from now on. In that sense, a tough night against Watford may turn out to be most valuable lesson so far of a fledgling career.

As it turned out, Manchester United did not need Rashford’s goals this time. Van Gaal’s side may have been second best for most of the night, but they still secured a fourth successive victory. Juan Mata’s floated free-kick brought cheers of relief at the Stretford End. This will not go down as a classic United victory.