Manchester United got back to winning ways at Everton on Sunday with Cristiano Ronaldo proving to be their match winner.
It was exactly the response they needed after a shocking derby day display in their last Premier League outing, but attention now turns to Europa League action. The Red Devils hosts Omonia, who gave them a stern test last week, as they look to secure qualification from their group.
We're into a phase of the season that will see the games coming thick and fast with the winter break for the World Cup on the horizon. Upcoming matches against the likes of Newcastle, Tottenham and Chelsea will further test where United are at as Erik ten Hag continues to get his message across.
The squad have been training at Carrington ahead of their European clash with several players potentially getting opportunities to stake their case for further minutes. We take a look at a few of the subplots from the United camp.
1. Ronaldo in high spirits
There's been so much talk about Ronaldo being a negative influence, especially given his desire to leave in the summer and subsequent lack of minutes. He was an unused sub in the derby day defeat and had just one goal to his name ahead of the Everton win on Sunday.
But he doubled his goal tally for the season to secure the win at Goodison Park, notching the 700th club goal of his career. With Anthony Martial potentially missing the weekend, Ronaldo could be set to reprise his starting role.
His positive mood was evident in training as United's No 7 was smiling and trying flicks and tricks. Ronaldo may still push for a January exit, but for now the Portuguese forward appears content with his efforts in recent days.
2. Shaw's one-to-one
The England full-back lost his position once Tyrell Malacia arrived at Old Trafford, but the Dutchman was hooked at half-time against Manchester City with Shaw potentially prospering as a result. The former Southampton man started in the win over Everton with Malacia on the bench.
It had looked as if Shaw was set for a period as an observer, but an opening could see him break back in with Ten Hag taking time out to work with his left-back. United's players are still getting to grips with the demands placed upon them, whilst the likes of Shaw will also want to know they are part of their manager's long-term thinking.
3. Ten Hag still getting his ideas across
The consensus is that things are slowly on the up at United, albeit they've been dealt the odd reality check. Results are generally improving, which keeps the pressure off, but Ten Hag will still want so much more from his team stylistically.
Both his assistants Steven McClaren and Mitchell van der Gaag are taking hands-on roles in the implementing of Ten Hag's ideas and methods. Clearly there is a long way to go as the boss is consistently making tweaks and offering feedback.
4. Youngsters getting in amongst it
United's long tradition of backing youth continues and academy graduates are often given a chance to train with the first-team. Testament to the environment at Carrington is how Rhys Bennett was laughing and joking with established pros. He was snapped having a joke with five-time Champions League winner Casemiro.
The defender penned a professional contract back in January having developed through United's academy. The natural step up is to play for the under-23s, with the long-term ambition to be operating in the first-team. Bennett has previously spent time in a first-team environment during a short period at AFC Wimbledon.
5. Casemiro buoyed after first start
There had long been a clamour for the Brazilian to come into the fold and, after a difficult first-half, the midfielder grew into the contest on Merseyside after being handed his first Premier League start.
It would eventually lead to the Man of the Match award, which will make him harder to ignore going forward. Christian Eriksen and Scott McTominay had formed a strong partnership in the middle of the park, but Casemiro's quality and experience were always set to make him a starter eventually.
