Manchester United win their second cup competition in successive seasons after a smash and grab appearance at Wembley against superior Southampton.

One of the things that set Manchester United apart from their competitors during the Sir Alex Ferguson years was their ability to carve out a win when not playing well. When Ferguson left, so did that perseverance, grit, and skill. But I think it’s creeping back into the DNA of the side.

United’s English Football League (EFL) odyssey began at Northampton and ended against Southampton. It didn’t seem to matter where the compass pointed; United destroyed every team that stepped into their path.

The final was a different proposition. Exuberant, thanks to their two-week rest, Southampton went at United from the very first whistle and were easily the better side in this one-sided clash. Had Manolo Gabbiadini’s early goal not been incorrectly flagged for offside, the game might have had a different complexion.