Jose Mourinho: 'Eric Bailly has surprised me'

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has admitted that he has been impressed with Eric Bailly since his arrival at Old Trafford.

Earlier this summer, Bailly left Villarreal to link up with the Premier League giants and he was initially regarded as one for the future, but the Ivorian has been one of United's star performers in their wins over Leicester City and Bournemouth.

The Portuguese told reporters: "I am surprised he has such a strong personality. A young boy playing in a completely different competition coming from a club without the same pressure as Man Utd.

"He comes here, first match, stable, comfortable, including with communication because other players speak French and Spanish."

Bailly may face competition for a starting role from Chris Smalling - who returns from suspension - when United host Southampton on Friday night.