February: Substance over style

Going into February and United start the month by seeing off League Two Cambridge at the second attempt to progress to the FA Cup fifth round.

The spirited challenge of the fourth tier side comes to an end at Old Trafford as goals from Mata, Wilson and Marcos Rojo (his first for the club) set up an away tie at Preston. 

Five days later and the Reds head to east London to face West Ham and are heading for a fourth league loss after Cheikhou Kouyate's early second half strike, but a late, late volley from Daley Blind rescues a deserved point for the Reds.

Performances remain unconvincing, but United continue to grind out results, and all those battling qualities are needed when tenacious, hard-working Burnley visit Old Trafford on the 11th.

Early substitute Chris Smalling puts the Reds ahead, but Danny Ings levels for the Clarets who are then the better side for long periods until United eventually claim victory through another from Smalling and a penalty from Van Persie.

Five days later, the Reds again toil at Preston in the FA Cup and look to be going out (Scott Laird having put the hosts ahead) until late goals from Herrera, Fellaini and Rooney turn the tie around and put United into the last eight. 

Swansea complete their first ever double over United with a smash and grab at the Liberty (Herrera putting the Reds ahead) before a brace of goals from Wayne Rooney see off ten man Sunderland at Old Trafford on the final day of the month. 

United end February in third place, two points ahead of Arsenal who have played a game more.
Rooney is now the Reds top scorer (he has 11) and RVP is just behind him on ten. 

February: Played 6 Won 4 Drawn 1 Lost 1 Goals For 13 Goals Against 5