Man Utd 2-0 Everton: Scott McTominay and Anthony Martial seal win

United continued to pepper the Everton goal to no avail. Marcel Sabitzer’s near-post drive and a poorly-executed attempt from Antony proved no match for Pickford before excellent defensive cover from Ben Godfrey prevented Antony converting after goalkeeper David de Gea’s quick release had played him through on goal.

Everton’s resistance was finally broken on 36 minutes as an intricate attacking move ended with Jadon Sancho threading McTominay in behind to ram the opener past Pickford at his near post.

It could have been two before the break but another superb save from Pickford tipped Antony’s curled effort behind to keep Everton in the contest.

In a more subdued second half where Everton grew in confidence without truly threatening the United goal, Bruno Fernandes’ header and Wan-Bissaka’s shot from a quick corner routine forced further saves from Pickford.

Martial came off the bench to wrap up the three points, slotting past Pickford after Lisandro Martinez and Rashford had combined down the left flank.

United welcomed Christian Eriksen back from a lengthy injury lay-off but just four minutes after his return the gloss was taken off proceedings by the sight of Rashford being forced off injured.