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Football: Man Utd 4-0 QPR at Old Trafford

Legend in the making gives hope to Old Trafford faithful, writes SIMON WILLIAMS

On September 14 1963 legend George Best made his debut for Manchester United, signalling a new era for the club.

And 51 years on, with United writing another chapter in their history, the Old Trafford faithful have a new legend in the making — Angel di Maria, the player signed for a British record £59.7 million from Real Madrid who orchestrated a convincing 4-0 thrashing of Queens Park Rangers.

The Argentinian netted his first goal for United on 24 minutes and was involved in the build-up for the home side’s second, scored by Ander Herrera.

Captain Wayne Rooney made it 3-0 just before the break before Di Maria was involved once again in the second half setting up Juan Mata for United’s fourth.

Louis van Gaal handed debuts to Marcos Rojo and Daley Blind — Colombian Radamel Falcao had to make do with a place on the bench. 

For the visitors, Rio Ferdinand made an emotional return to the club where he won 10 trophies in 455 appearances.

Before kick-off Sir Bobby Charlton presented the defender with a gift to mark his 12 years’ service for the Red Devils.

Harry Redknapp also gave starts to Niko Kranjcar and Sandro following their deadline-day moves.

Manchester United went into the game having made their equal-worst start to a season since 2007-2008, taking just two points from their opening three matches.

But the gloom that has recently surrounded the Red half of Manchester lifted when Di Maria found the back of Robert Green’s goal, his curling free-kick evading the Hoops keeper.

And the home side doubled their lead 12 minutes later thanks to another of United’s summer signings, Herrera, who drilled the ball past Green from the edge of the area.

And Van Gaal’s side were out of sight a minute before the break after Herrera teed up Rooney who shot low past Green at his near post.

The R’s had a good chance to pull a goal back early in the second half, but Kranjcar saw his low drive blocked by the boot of David de Gea.

United once again stamped their authority on the game when Mata turned in a low Di Maria cross from the left flank.

Falcao came on as a second-half substitute but failed to find the back of the net, his best effort saved by a sprawling Green.

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