Manchester United hammer Everton on Wayne Rooney’s return to Old Trafford

Wayne Rooney’s Old Trafford return ended in disappointment as Antonio Valencia’s breath-taking strike set Manchester United on course for a comprehensive victory against Everton.

The build-up to Sunday’s encounter revolved around the return of United’s all-time top scorer for the first time since rejoining his boyhood club in the summer after 13 successful years in red.

Rooney was given a warm welcome at Old Trafford and left to a standing ovation, but it was Valencia that got fans on their feet as an outstanding half-volley kicked-off a United win that ended 4-0, thanks to late goals by Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Romelu Lukaku and Anthony Martial.

What they said

Tweet of the match

Star man – Nemanja Matic

Another fine display in midfield by the summer signing. After setting up Valencia’s goal, he bossed the midfield and helped control the tempo when things were tight. Chelsea may well be ruing their decision to sell him.

Moment of the match

Just four minutes were on the clock when an innocuous Matic cross along the 18-yard-box was met by a remarkable Valencia strike, with the half volley curling into the net to send Old Trafford wild.

Stat of the match

Everton have now lost four straight matches in all competitions. United are unbeaten in 33 home matches in all competitions.

Player ratings

Who’s up next?

Manchester United v Burton (Carabao Cup, September 20)

Everton v Sunderland (Carabao Cup, September 20)