Manchester United have bounced back from their 3-1 defeat away to Brentford last Saturday by beating newly promoted Sunderland 2-0 at Old Trafford. Ruben Amorim needed those three points to alleviate the pressure that has been continuing to build over the last week.

The Red Devils took a lead early on, thanks to a sublime effort by Mason Mount. United’s number seven took his chance well, with a great first touch before firing into the back of the net to put his side ahead.

Just after the 30-minute mark, United doubled their advantage. This time, it was Benjamin Sesko who found the back of the net, getting onto the end of a flick on from a long throw. It means he’s now scored two goals in as many games for his new side.

United’s win also saw goalkeeper Senne Lammens, starting his first game since a deadline-day move, pull off several excellent saves. He kept Granit Xhaka out in the first half and made a late save with his feet to keep United’s clean sheet intact.

It was certainly a better day at the office for the Red Devils, with two of the standouts being Mount and Sesko.

Mount and Sesko’s stats vs. Sunderland

Since truly getting over his injury issues, Mount has been a key player under Amoirm. This term, he’s started the majority of games in the Premier League, with his performance against Sunderland showing exactly why United’s manager likes him so much.

His goal was very well-taken, with his perfect first touch controlling Bryan Mbeumo’s pass at knee height, before swivelling and firing past Robin Roefs.

It was an excellent team move for United, which consisted of 18 passes before Mount put the ball in the back of the net.

Sesko’s performance also stood out. His goal was simple, but encouraging for United fans. He occupied the six-yard box well and reacted quickly enough to turn the ball in. The two goals in as many games that he’s now scored will surely do wonders for his confidence.

Well, David McDonnell, chief Manchester United writer for The Manchester Evening News, seemed to think highly of Sesko’s efforts. He gave the Slovenian star a 7/10 for his afternoon’s work, describing his finish as a ‘classic poacher’s goal’.

As well as Mount and Sesko performed against Sunderland, there was someone who was arguably even better.

The standout United player vs. Sunderland

Aside from the two United goalscorers, there was a player who really stood out. Of course, Lammens made some decisive saves on debut, but even he was overshadowed by his Red Devils teammate.

It was a big day for former Sunderland loanee Amad, and he certainly delivered against the club where he truly made a name for himself a couple of seasons ago. Operating at right wing-back, the Ivorian star was a huge threat going forward.

The stats from the game certainly show how dangerous he was. Amad created three chances, more than both Mount and Sesko.

He also completed 100% of his passes and won eight ground duels with a 57% win rate. In contrast, United’s number seven won one out of five and their new striker just five out of 12.

Pass accuracy

100%

Passes completed

38/38

Touches

62

Touches in the opposition box

5

Ground duels won

8/14

Ball recoveries

6

Chances created

3

Indeed, McDonnell was hugely impressed with Amad’s contribution against the Black Cats. He gave the attacker a 7/10 rating, the same as Sesko, and said he was a ‘constant threat down the right side’ for United against his former club.

It was a fantastic performance from the 23-year-old. He shone at right wing-back last season, and whilst it has been a slow start to this campaign, that performance against his former club will surely do him the world of good.

Now, Amorim will be hoping Amad can build on that performance after the international break, when United face arch-rivals Liverpool.