Javier Hernandez grabbed the only goal as Manchester United started to put their derby mauling behind them with a laboured victory at Everton. Yet it was a far from convincing performance by United and Everton twice went close to equalising as Leighton Baines hit the bar and David de Gea saved brilliantly from Jack Rodwell.
The Mexican tapped in after 19 minutes to get the champions back on track in the Barclays Premier League after last week's 6-1 thrashing by Manchester City. Everton also had plenty of possession in the closing stages of each half but lacked the cutting edge to truly worry the visitors.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson had given Jonny Evans a vote of confidence following his sending off against City by restoring him in defence after suspension. Evans took his place alongside Nemanja Vidic, himself sent off on Champions League duty recently, with Rio Ferdinand left on the bench.
Otherwise United's emphasis was on attack with Hernandez, Danny Welbeck and former Everton prodigy Wayne Rooney all starting. Everton had problems with experienced pair Phil Neville and Tim Cahill ruled out, in-form Royston Drenthe suspended and defender Sylvain Distin unexpectedly missing from the teamsheet. That meant Phil Jagielka, who had been doubtful due to a hairline toe fracture, was pressed back into service.
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