Jose Mourinho has adapted well to life as manager of Manchester United Football Club following a difficult start which threatened to put the mockers under the Red Devils’ season.

The turnaround at Old Trafford has seen Mourinho’s men secure their place in today’s EFL Cup Final and the ardent United fans here in the Transfer Tavern are determined to enjoy the day.

United face a resolute Southampton side and Mourinho will know that nothing less than a committed performance will be enough this afternoon.

A couple of United fans are in the Tavern early this morning to soak up the atmosphere and sample a few beers ahead of the game and they have been chatting about what the team must do in order to come out on top during today’s final.

Lee Clarke looks at two things that Jose Mourinho must ensure happens in order for Manchester United to win the trophy comfortably.

Start with a strong side

With a plethora of talent at his disposal it must be tempting for Mourinho to shuffle his pack at the weekend, ahead of the club’s quest to secure a top four finish.

That said, Southampton aren’t to be underestimated and if the United boss plays a weakened team then it could have a detrimental effect on his side’s performance.

The likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Paul Pogba and Juan Mata must all get the nod to start, if United are to be successful this afternoon.

Score early

Southampton will relish the chance to try and win some silverware for their ardent group of supporters and they will be bang up for this game today.

The Saints went for the kill early on against Liverpool in the previous round and United must be aware of the threat which Claude Puel’s men pose.

One United fan is getting the round in for him and his pals and he says that an early goal for United could kill the contest, stating that a good start is vitally important for the team.