Van Persie: We can do better

Match-winner Robin van Persie conceded Manchester United were not at their best in the 2-1 win at Southampton.

The vistors climbed to third in the Premier League on Monday night, despiteonly having three attempts on goal at St Mary's, and had Van Persie to thank after he made two of those opportunities count.

And after collecting the Man of the Match award, the Dutchman told Sports that the team is not playing well, even though they have won five matches in a row.

"I don't think we played our best football today," Van Persie said.

"We were a bit sloppy here and there. We fought hard and in the end we nicked it. It was a tough game. They have a good team so we knew what to expect, but I think it's our fifth straight victory so we are on the way up."

Van Persie picked up Jose Fonte's under-hit backpass, before rolling it between Fraser Forster's legs to open the scoring and then exquisitely flicked home Wayne Rooney's rangy free-kick delivery late on.

"When asked about whether he felt sharp on the night, he said: "I felt good. To be fair I've felt good over the last couple of weeks.

"Fitness-wise I think I can play 90 minutes easier and tonight I thought keep going and it will come."