Manchester United 3-1 Newcastle United: Five Talking Points

A brace from Wayne Rooney and second-half goal from Robin Van Persie was enough to seal all three points for the Red Devils who moved three points clear off fourth-placed Southampton. Although the visitors started the brighter of the two sides, it was United who took the lead thanks to their captain, who doubled his tally and the side’s just before half-time. The second half was a non-event for the most part as the home side were in cruise control as Van Persie added a third after a wonderful clipped ball from Rooney. A late penalty from Papiss Cisse for a clip by Phil Jones was nothing more than a mere consolation for the visitors who were completely outplayed throughout the game.Here are the major talking points from the game.

#1 United\'s attacking trio starting to fire

One of the reasons why Louis Van Gaal chose to go with the 3-4-1-2 formation was that it allowed him to play his three best strikers in the same XI. Although Rooney played in midfield, his passing and willingness to get into the box meant that at times, the Red Devils were simply unstoppable as an attacking force. Not only did Van Persie get the goal, he was also dropping deep at times and his link-up play with Falcao is improving with every single game. All three strikers either had  a goal  or an assist  to their name and that was the first team this season that has happened. If United can keep them fit and also add Angel Di Maria to their ranks, they would be very difficult to contain as the season wears on.