Paul Pogba s return and subsequent performance off the bench was the only plus in Manchester United s 2-0 defeat to Watford, according to manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
United once again produced a disappointing display against an opponent they would be expected to beat, as rock-bottom Watford gave their survival hopes a boost.
Ismaila Sarr opened the scoring just after half-time when David de Gea allowed his tame volley to squirm into the top corner, before Troy Deeney made it 2-0 from the spot following Aaron Wan-Bissaka s clumsy tackle on Watford s first goal-scorer.
Pogba was introduced from the bench for his first appearance in nearly three months and looked comfortably United s best player.
Although he was unable to inspire a turnaround, Solskjaer considered his performance the only positive from United s overall display.
The boss is aiming for a positive response after today s result.
— Manchester United (@ManUtd)
The big plus is Paul coming on, and that s the one plus, Solskjaer told BBC Sport. He added urgency, quality, some great passes.
The boy has been working hard. He s fit and leaner. He ll bring us a lot. He is important for us. He makes us create more chances.
De Gea s error proved costly and he also had a lucky escape in the first half when Watford were denied a goal because Craig Cathcart was adjudged to have fouled the goalkeeper, though replays suggested it was harsh on the defender.
Solskjaer insisted De Gea is not suffering from a lack of confidence, however.
It s one of those things. He s been so good in training and focused, Solskjaer said of the Spain international.
One goal is a mistake and the second is penalty. David s been very confident lately and I don t look at it any other way.
