Ibrahimovic rues missed header at Anfield

Manchester United frontman Zlatan Ibrahimovic has vowed to make the most of his next scoring opportunity, after miscuing a vital header during Monday’s 0-0 draw at Liverpool.

The Swede, who has scored six goals this season, broke free from his marker on 54 minutes to meet Paul Pogba’s inviting cross at the back post. But he was unable to guide his effort past goalkeeper Loris Karius, instead nodding it back into the six-yard area for the relieved German to collect.

Although a point at Anfield is widely regarded as a creditable result, Ibrahimovic conceded he could have won the game for United and has vowed to improve in his next outing. “It was difficult,” Zlatan informed reporters when discussing his big chance. “I needed to chase the ball instead of attacking the ball, but still I should have put it at least on the target. But the next game, I will do better.”

On the match itself, Ibrahimovic remained upbeat: “I think the game was a good game, a difficult game at the same time. I mean away against Liverpool - Liverpool are unbeaten against the top teams, seven points and I think it was a good result. After the second half, their chances were more, but we still worked and we can do much more, yes. But we're working hard and we're getting there.”

United’s summer signing also reserved praise for David De Gea following the Spaniard’s two world-class saves that denied Emre Can and Philippe Coutinho.  “I think he did some great saves,” Ibra explained. “That's why he is a top goalkeeper. You need that also and he had a fantastic game.”

United are now seventh in the Premier League and five points behind leaders Manchester City after eight matches played. Having noted the unpredictability of recent results among the bigger clubs, Ibrahimovic remains optimistic that the Reds can mount a title challenge between now and the end of the season.

"The season is long,” Zlatan said. “I see many teams are losing points at the same time. Any week, different things can happen so it is important to win the games you need to win and stay on the top.

“I mean, if you win two games in the row you're on the top. That's the way it has been so far. If we can get the wins we need to win the points then we are in touch, but it is a long season. We are there, we are fighting, we are getting points. We just need to click and then it'll be easier.”