Unrecognizable United awakens from slumber

Relief for Ten Hag as Liverpool win provides timely boost after terrible start

Finally, there are signs of life at Manchester United.

Against a backdrop of protests against the club's ownership, United delivered a performance of intensity and spirit to beat fierce rival Liverpool 2-1 on Monday and claim its first points in the Premier League this season.

Composed finishes by Jadon Sancho in the 16th minute and Marcus Rashford in the 53rd earned a victory at Old Trafford that will bring some respite for under-pressure manager Erik ten Hag, who made a huge statement in his team selection by dropping star striker Cristiano Ronaldo and club captain Harry Maguire－and was validated.