Rooney leaves to Old Trafford ovation as United bury Everton

Wayne Rooney’s Old Trafford return ended in disappointment as Antonio Valencia’s brilliant strike set Manchester United on course for an emphatic defeat of Everton.

The build-up to yesterday’s encounter revolved around the return of United’s all-time top scorer, pictured, for the first time since rejoining his boyhood club in the summer after 13 successful years in red.

Rooney was given a warm welcome and left to a standing ovation when substituted after 82 minutes on the day before facing a drink-drive charge at Stockport Magistrates’ Court.

But it was Valencia who got fans on their feet as an outstanding half-volley kicked off a United win that ended 4-0 thanks to late goals by Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Romelu Lukaku and Anthony Martial.

Earlier, Arsenal ended a fivematch losing streak at Stamford Bridge in an entertaining draw with Chelsea.

It was as frenetic and entertaining as a goalless stalemate could be, with David Luiz sent off late on for a poor challenge on Sead Kolasinac which led to both benches rising to their feet.

Arsenal had the better chances, the best when Alexandre Lacazette shot wide after Aaron Ramsey had hit the post. Danny Welbeck should also have done better than head wide in a first half when Petr Cech save well from Pedro.