José Mourinho has long been known as a tactical mastermind but in today's Premier League game between Manchester United and Liverpool it looks like his team did exactly what he wanted.
The Special One looked to pull off a tactical masterclass as he was spotted scribbling down a plan on his notepad for the Red Devils to target Romelu Lukaku with second balls - just before Marcus Rashford scored twice from that exact tactic.
Advert
Just minutes after the United boss was spotted making the note, Lukaku successfully headed on a long-ball from goalie David de Gea into the path of Marcus Rashford.
The England international raced through in behind Liverpool full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold to curl the ball into the net at the far post.
That wasn't the only contribution Lukaku's head had in proceedings either, as he got involved in the build-up to United's second goal which Rashford also tucked away nicely. Not bad for the LAD's first start of 2018.
Just ahead of the North West derby, Mourinho singled out Lukaku for praise, particularly for his happiness to contribute to the team and play wherever the gaffer asks him.
Advert
Jose said: "He is an important guy for me. He is one of the guys that I trust. I love the attitude and the character.
"Against Crystal Palace, after our third goal, I told him [to play as a] central defender in a back five with Smalling and Lindelof because I could not make any more changes.
"So when I say to a striker, 'Go there and do that job for me', then he is a sergeant. He is a guy that you can trust. His attitude is phenomenal.
"That is why I told you many times that, for me, it is not just about the goals he scores, it is about what he brings to the team.
Advert
"And he brings to the team exactly that spirit."
As it turned out Manchester United won the game 2-1 thanks to Rashford's goals with the Manchester-born winger going off to applause from the home fans.
While Liverpool eventually got a consolation goal thanks to Eric Bailly's own goal, they couldn't quite make the comeback they needed.
Advert
The result leaves Manchester United in second place in the Premier League, five points clear of Liverpool in third.
For all those saying Jose Mourinho's past it at the top level, you need to pay more attention. He definitely still has.
Featured Image Credit: Sky SportsTopics: Liverpool, SPORT, News, Manchester United