5 things we learned from Manchester United v Southampton

Manchester United defeated Southampton 3-2 at Wembley Stadium on Sunday afternoon to lift the 2017 EFL Cup.

A brace from Zlatan Ibrahimovic, either side of Jesse Lingard’s tidy finish shortly before half-time, saw The Red Devils fend off a stylish Saints side who were inspired by Manolo Gabbiadini’s double.

But it was 35-year-old Ibrahimovic who snatched the trophy from Southampton’s grasp and sealed United’s fifth League Cup victory after heading home the winner from Ander Herrera’s cross in the 87th minute.

Jose Mourinho claimed his first major trophy with the Old Trafford outfit, although he did lead The Red Devils to FA Community Shield victory back in August at the national stadium.

This evening’s triumph guarantees Manchester United a spot in the UEFA Europa League next term, although The Red Devils will still be eyeing a Champions League spot via the Premier League’s top four come May.

Manchester United have now won this competition five times times (1992, 2006, 2009, 2010 and 2017) and move up to second in the all-time winners list alongside Chelsea and Aston Villa.

So, following the full-time whistle, here is five things Shoot! learned from the 2017 EFL Cup final…