Manchester United reduced the gap on leaders Chelsea back to five points as they clinically disposed of Everton 3-0 at Old Trafford. Everton had their moments but it was the home side who took their chances.

United had enjoyed the majority of possession for the first period but only one goal to show for it.

Darren Fletcher's brilliantly volleyed the home side into a deserved half-time lead on 34 minutes.

After the break Everton enjoyed a good period of play but failed to capitalise and were made to pay when the home side doubled their advantage on 67 minutes.

Ryan Giggs found Michael Carrick on the edge of the penalty area and the England midfielder made no mistake with a first time shot past Tim Howard.

Eight minutes later and the points were safe - Antonio Valencia got the goal his performance deserved, albeit with the aid of a deflection off Leighton Baines.

The visitor's had a flurry of corners near the end but it was too little too late for the Merseysiders as United moved back into second place in the Premier League.