Rivals back in business

consolation.

United's next league opponents Middlesbrough lost 0-1 at home by Everton, after conceding Tim Cahill's goal early in the second half. Further north, Sunderland remain unbeaten since losing to United - the Black Cats drew 0-0 with Blackburn.

Steve Bruce will bring his Wigan side to Old Trafford on 14 January in a good position - they won their last home game of 2008, beating Newcastle United 2-1.