EPL: Man United 2 - 1 Watford - Solskjaer win first game as Red Devils Manager

Marcus opened scoring for Manchester United - Andrew Yates/Reuters/TheGuardian 

Manchester United Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said Red Devils seemed "on holiday" as his reign as permanent manager kicked off with a difficult win over Watford at Old Trafford.


The victory takes Man United to fourth above Arsenal, who play on Monday.

Forward Marcus Rashford opened scoring for the hosts in the 28th minute after a superb through ball from Luke Shaw.

It was Rashford's 10th Premier League goal.

Anthony Martial made it two for Man Utd just midway into the second half with a close-range finish.

Abdoulaye Doucoure netted Watford's late goal.

Solskjaer, who was appointed on a three-year contract, said, "It was a really nervy last five minutes."

Anthony Martial celebrate with teammates after scoring Man Utd's second goal - Shaun Botterill/Getty/TheGuardian

"They made it difficult for us and it seemed as though we were still on holiday or the international break. Both teams feel they should have points.

"When I won trophies here, we didn't play well in every game but [today] we lacked zip, urgency, and fitness."

Man Utd now holds the fourth spot with 61 points, same as Tottenham, who are third-placed.

Tottenham will travel to Liverpool on Sunday.