Ole Gunnar Solskjaer delivered an honest assessment of his Manchester United side after a crucial win against Leicester City.
Marcus Rashford’s eighth-minute penalty eased the pressure on the Norwegian and lifted his side into the top four.
But United’s manager admitted a 1-0 was far from convincing against a Leicester side that dominated possession for long periods at Old Trafford.
Solskjaer said: “Let’s not kid ourselves, we didn’t play a great game. The first 25 minutes were fantastic, but we gradually lost control. Then towards the end we were in control.
“Today was probably the first time this season, apart from spells against Chelsea, where we’ve had to defend as a team for longer periods, so the clean sheet is pleasing.
“We don’t get carried away when we win a game we didn’t deserve to win because performances have been miles better than this.
“Today we have to accept three points and tomorrow relax a bit and look forward to next week.”
Leicester were widely tipped to take advantage of a United team missing Paul Pogba, Anthony Martial, Jesse Lingard and Luke Shaw.
Victory would have seen Brendan Rodgers’ side open up a six-point lead of their hosts.
Despite being critical of United’s performance, Solskjaer hailed the attitude of his players.
“I think you can say team spirit, character and trusting our principles (were there). Sometimes you play against teams that give you problems and we rode the game out well.
“In the end performances don’t give you points if you don’t score goals.
“If Leicester had won we’d have been too far behind. With a win at least we’re in there and not having to put our minds in doubt on whether we are we doing the right things. The boys will get loads of confidence today.”
