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more speed bursts in training. That, for me, is most essential.”

Saturday’s result was never in doubt as United secured their biggest league win of the season and most convincing for almost 12 months.

United took just 13 minutes to go ahead when Ashley Young cut into the box before smashing a curling effort into the top corner.

Lukaku and Marcus Rashford combined for Juan Mata to sweep in United’s second on 27 minutes before Lukaku finished from close range to make it 3-0 before half time – his first goal at Old Trafford for 997 minutes stretching back to March.

With the points in the bag, United eased up after the break but even when substitute Aboubakar Kamara pulled one back from the penalty spot on 67 minutes, the visitors still found ways to make life difficult for themselves.

Andre-Frank Anguissa saw red just a minute later after upending Rashford to pick up his second booking and the fightback was over moments after it had begun.

Rashford had the last laugh with a stunning finish on 82 minutes to condemn bottom side Fulham to their seventh straight loss on the road.

Boss Claudio Ranieri knows he has a huge task ahead to save his side from relegation.

He said: “In the first half we were shy, we were waiting. Why? Why were we waiting? The first half was a warm-up.

“I want my team to play and fight for every single ball. We have to be stronger and more confident in our qualities.

“In the first half it was 11 lambs against 11 wolves. The wolves ate the lambs.”