FROM GRIM TO GRINS

De Ligt: Win was be-all & end-all after cup horror

- DAVID MCDONELL AT OLD TRAFFORD

AFTER their Grimsby humiliation, a win by any means necessary was all that mattered for Manchester United and Ruben Amorim.

That it came via a 97th-minute penalty from Bruno Fernandes, following a controversial VAR call, will not matter to the Red Devils or their under-pressure boss.

The truth is United should have secured the win long before the late drama that saw Amorim’s side claim a first triumph of the season, easing the pressure on him.

That they laboured to victory will still be a cause of concern for the Portuguese, United's hierarchy and fans.

But at least the gaffer can head into the international break without looking over his shoulder and fearing for his job.

When United return to action, they face two huge back-to-back tests - away to Manchester City in the derby on September 14 followed by Chelsea at Old Trafford.