Van Nistelrooy certainly demanded a lot of effort from his players as he stepped in until Amorim finally took over from the sacked Erik ten Hag, but he failed to produce any real quality.

United were reasonably comfortable in defense in the face of Chelsea's threat, but lacked creativity and tenacity, which ultimately led to them not doing enough to deserve the win.

Rashford's volley came closest until Chelsea keeper Sanchez rashly challenged Hojlund as the striker appeared to have lost control and moved away from goal.

The young striker was a peripheral figure while Alejandro Garnacho brought United together as a whole. The Argentine ran tirelessly but his finishing was erratic, particularly in the second half when he missed a clear chance from Fernandes' pass and shot tamely into the arms of Sanchez at the Stretford End.

Van Nistelrooy is clearly determined to enjoy his time as manager and his celebration of United's goal was a sight to behold: he jumped and ran down the touchline before pumping his fists at the ecstatic fans.

It was a display of emotion that stood in sharp contrast to the reserved Ten Hag and the United legend's presence was met with approval throughout Old Trafford.

United will be disappointed to have lost the lead so quickly, but they are a club who understandably feel like they are in a holding pattern until a new era begins under Amorim after the international break.