Cristiano Ronaldo edges Manchester United closer to Champions League spots

Manchester United cruised to a 3-1 victory over Burnley on Thursday to edge closer to the Premier League's top four, inspired by a stellar Cristiano Ronaldo display.

It was the first 45 minutes that saw the points all but wrapped up, as Scott McTominay set United on their way with an early side-footed strike from the edge of the box.

That early lead was soon doubled as Jadon Sancho meandered through the Burnley defence down the left flank before aiming a low shot to the far corner which was deflected in via the boot of Ben Mee.

McTominay was involved in the third of the game as his excellent long distance strike was saved onto the bar before falling to Ronaldo in the six yard box who had the simple task of tapping it into an empty net.

Burnley did manage to get themselves back in the game just before the break as Aaron Lennon, in the line-up for a rare start, weaved through the United defence before guiding a cute shot past David de Gea.

However, the former Tottenham's goal would prove nothing more than a consolation for the visitors, as United slowed the pace of the game down in the second half to seal a precious three points.

The result leaves the Red Devils four points behind Arsenal in fifth place, with Ralf Rangnick's men having played a game less.