Man City2 - 1Brentford

After losing consecutive games before the international break, Man United provided a positive response in Saturday's lunchtime kick off at St Mary's.

Andre Onana made a crucial penalty save to deny Cameron Archer before De Ligt opened the scoring to register his first Premier League goal.

The Dutchman steered a downward header out of Aaron Ramsdale's reach after meeting Bruno Fernandes's inswinging delivery.

Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho went on to grab a goal apiece and secure a comfortable victory for Erik ten Hag's side.

De Ligt provides injury update

As well as scoring in the victory, De Ligt put in a strong defensive display to help Man United clinch their second clean sheet of the season.

However, the defender was unable to play the full duration of the contest and was replaced by Casemiro in the 87th minute.

De Ligt appeared to be struggling with a physical issue, but he has allayed any fears that he sustained an injury, revealing that he was withdrawn due to a cramp.

"I'm fine, I just had a little cramp in the last four minutes," De Ligt told TNT Sports. "It's the first time in probably five months that I've played three in a row. I wanted to play until the end."

De Ligt comments on difficult international period

The centre-back was playing his first game since being withdrawn at half time of Netherlands's UEFA Nations League clash with Germany.

Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman revealed he took De Ligt off to protect him after a couple of difficult appearances.

After experiencing a forgettable international period, De Ligt was asked whether he had something to prove in his return to club action.

"Not exactly a point to prove," De Ligt said. "Sometimes it doesn't go as well as you want but you have to look at the positive side.

"I was happy I played one and a half, it's a long time since I played games. This is my third game in a week. For me, it's important to get rhythm and I can show a little more what I can do."

Man United will now start preparations for Tuesday's home meeting with League One side Barnsley in the third round of the EFL Cup.