Manchester United 3-2 Tottenham Hotspur - Cristiano Ronaldo hits hat-trick as Red Devils lay down top-four marker

Manchester United had Cristiano Ronaldo to thank once again as his hat-trick was enough to see off a stubborn Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford. The 3-2 scoreline was a fair reflection on a game that ebbed and flowed in parts, dragging in others, and a magical moment from the great man on 12 minutes lit up what had been a tentative start to proceedings, as neither side really went chasing when out of possession.

Ad/> Ralf Rangnick was brave enough to play the United legend from the start after a hip flexor problem had ruled him out of the derby day embarrassment at the hands of Manchester City last time out, and the Portuguese's inclusion was justified as he fired a corker beyond Hugo Lloris from range after excellent work in the midfield by Fred to set him up. Premier LeagueDe Gea named in United team to face Tottenham after Covid-19 scare, Bruno absent3 HOURS AGO Antonio Conte thought his side had levelled as Ben Davies of all people slotted past David de Gea at the near post after excellent link-up down the left by Heung-Min Son and Sergio Reguilon allowed him to steal a march on the trailing Jadon Sancho, but the flag was raised as United escaped.

It wasn't for long, though, as Spurs penetrated the right side after an initial Eric Dier attempt from the edge of the area, and Dejan Kulusevski's cross was adjudged to have been handled by Alex Telles as Jon Moss pointed to the spot. Talismanic striker Harry Kane duly converted the equaliser as De Gea guessed right, but Spurs had the goal they deserved as they piled the pressure on their hosts, who had shrivelled back into their shells slightly after that initial Ronaldo opener.