Wayne Rooney's Old Trafford return ended in disappointment as Antonio Valencia's breath-taking strike (4th minute) set Man United on course for a comprehensive victory against Everton
A jubilant Romelu Lukaku celebrates Manchester United’s third goal against Everton during a Premier League match yesterday. Pic/AFP
Wayne Rooney's Old Trafford return ended in disappointment as Antonio Valencia's breath-taking strike (4th minute) set Man United on course for a comprehensive victory against Everton.
ADVERTISEMENT
Mkhitaryan slotted home in the dying minutes (83rd) of the game and then Lukaku (89th) fired home against his former club before Martial's (90th) stoppage-time penalty wrapped up a comprehensive victory.
Focus on Rooney's return
The build-up to yesterday'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.
Ronald Koeman has some serious questions to answer after Everton's fourth straight loss in all competitions — an outcome that looked likely within four minutes as Valencia met Nemanja Matic's cross with a stunning effort.
Lukaku wasted a glorious chance and Juan Mata hit the post as United attempted to ward off the visitors' threat, with Rooney's 82nd-minute substitution — the day before facing a drink drive charge at Stockport Magistrates' Court today.
Chelsea, Arsenal draw 0-0
Earlier, Arsenal ended a five-match losing streak at Stamford Bridge in a draw with champions Chelsea. It was an entertaining goalless stalemate, with David Luiz sent off late on for a poor challenge on Sead Kolasinac.
Arsenal had the better chances, the best when Alexandre Lacazette shot wide. Danny Welbeck should have done better in the first half. Arsenal still have not won in EPL here since October 2011.
In the six games since the Gunners have lost by an aggregate of 15-2, this was the first time there has been parity. Arsene Wenger's men are chasing a first away win against the top six since January 2015 at Manchester City, but this was improved following the 4-0 loss at Liverpool.