Will Keane continued his excellent record in front of goal to spearhead a 3-1 victory for United over arch-rivals Liverpool on Saturday.

The in-form Stockport-born striker scored twice and had a hand in United’s other goal from Nicky Ajose, and he now takes his tally to an impressive seven in his last four games.

The Reds were suffering from a host of absentees as Scott Wootton was out through suspension, while Ravel Morrison, John Cofie, Reece Brown, Robbie Brady, Alberto Massacci and Michele Fornasier were all missing from the squad. Despite that, it didn’t seem to affect Paul McGuinness’ side as United took the lead after 16 minutes of a commanding display.

And the opening goal was the silky-skilled Keane at his finest. From Ajose’s left-wing cross, Keane’s first touch was delightfully delicate to bring the ball into his possession. Then, surrounded by Liverpool defenders, it was his calm head and neat footwork that engineered some space before curling his shot expertly into the far corner.