Rashford was then supplied with the easiest of finishes for his fourth goal in four games since the post-World Cup resumption. Marcus Rashford then rounded off the scoring, tapping into an empty net after a Bruno Fernandes pass, to score in three successive Old Trafford league games for the first time. To concede from a set-piece, after limiting United in the early exchanges, will frustrate O'Neil, as will a goal so close to his half-time team talk. United host neighbours Man City in their next league game on 14 January, and could end that game above their city rivals, which would be a strong indication of the improvement they are making under Ten Hag. Questions were asked about whether he was a Ten Hag signing, but he has started the Reds' past 10 Premier League games - a run which has seven wins and two draws, alongside a defeat at Aston Villa.

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The strides we are taking are going in the right direction that we want," said Shaw. "There is still a lot to improve on but things are looking really good and positive.

Bournemouth, who failed to have a shot on target until the 57th minute, stay 15th, two points clear of the relegation places. It wasn't a 3-0 game," said O'Neil. "I think we had maybe six or seven chances but obviously Manchester United had some as well.

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Despite that the Dutchman was unhappy with his side's display, saying: "Today it was not our best game. We have to be honest, we didn't play that smart as a team. Games against the likes of United are not going to decide Bournemouth's Premier League future, but manager Gary O'Neil wanted a reaction after "the worst" performance of his reign against Crystal Palace on New Year's Eve. United had started slowly, having a lot of possession in their defensive third but, once they found the opener, a seventh successive home win in all competitions never felt in doubt.They stay fourth, but join third-placed Newcastle on 35 points, and, perhaps most importantly, have opened up a five-point cushion on fifth-placed Tottenham.