Edwin van der Sar – Showed exactly why he’ll be missed; distribution, organisation and authority. Bent's goal apart, he barely had a shot to save all night because of his marshalling, and got United off to the perfect start with an incredible 70-yard assist inside a minute.

John O’Shea – Solid as a rock. Kept the lively Albrighton on a short leash throughout and allowed very little danger to pass down his flank. Young provided a different challenge, but Sheasy was up to the task.

Nemanja Vidic - Copy and paste the skipper’s review from any game this season. As ever, utterly imperious.

Rio Ferdinand – Everything you would expect. Cool and calm throughout, but no nonsense when the situation called for decisive action. Gave Bent almost nothing.

Patrice Evra – Magnificent. Linked up superbly with Giggs and joined several attacks. Only denied a fine goal by Friedel’s smart stop. The all-action approach also extended to his defensive work – though he was one of those caught out in the build-up to Bent’s goal.

Nani – Such a thorn in Villa’s side. Ciaran Clark had a tough evening against the winger, who put in a perfect cross for Rooney’s second on the stroke of half-time.