Manchester United returned to winning ways at Stamford Bridge as Michael Carrick secured another important victory as manager, with Matheus Cunha's strike clinching three points in a 1-0 win over Chelsea. Carrick has now triumphed against four of the top six and this result moves United nearer to a Champions League return, with the distance between them and Chelsea now standing at 10 points with just five matches left.

Chelsea had dominated the opening period but United struck just before half-time, with the creator familiar. Bruno Fernandes broke free from Alejandro Garnacho down the right and his low delivery was converted by Cunha. That ultimately proved sufficient as United battled after the interval to preserve their advantage. Here is how the players rated at Stamford Bridge.

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Senne Lammens: Might have gathered a tame Enzo Fernandez effort in the opening half that resulted in Chelsea's disallowed goal and a wayward mis-kick in the second period, but remained composed throughout. 7

Diogo Dalot: Would have been accustomed to the threats Garnacho presents and demonstrated he knew exactly how to contain him. Dominated him physically in front of the travelling supporters, which was warmly received. 8

Noussair Mazraoui: A contrasting type of test as a centre-back in a back four and he performed admirably. Strong in aerial duels and dependable on the deck. 7

Ayden Heaven: Escaped punishment for an early challenge on Cole Palmer just outside the box, but found his rhythm after a superb tackle on Liam Delap and performed solidly in the second half. 7

Luke Shaw: Encountered Pedro Neto and Palmer on his flank regularly but utilised his experience to seek support and do his utmost. Combative in the tackle and defended admirably. 7

Casemiro: Some crucial defensive headers and interpreted the game effectively in the second half. A touch passive with one effort to halt Fernandes in the box during the first half, but his experience proved valuable. 7

Kobbie Mainoo: Could argue this ranked amongst his finest displays defensively. Recovered possession several times and positioned himself intelligently to intercept. Dispossessed Palmer at one stage. 8

Bryan Mbeumo: Significantly improved following his rest and appeared more energetic than he has recently. One incisive burst down the right merited better than a poor touch from Cunha. 7

Bruno Fernandes: Delivery had been somewhat erratic before his magnificent assist shortly before half-time. Might have provided another in the second half, but counter-attacks weren't consistently incisive. His partnership with Cunha is growing every week. 7

Matheus Cunha: Squandered one promising opportunity with a clumsy touch but proved he had learned his lesson when converting with his first touch from Fernandes' cross. Increased in confidence after. 8

Benjamin Sesko: His contribution to Cunha's goal flew somewhat under the radar, with his power helping to engage Moises Caicedo and prevent him from either cutting out the cross or closing down Cunha. 7

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Substitutes

Mason Mount: Booed on his return to Stamford Bridge and got stuck in. 7

Amad: Little time to make an impact. 6

Joshua Zirkzee: Arrived late on. 6

Subs not used: Altay Bayindir, Tyrell Malacia, Manuel Ugarte, Tyler Fletcher, Jim Thwaites, Shea Lacey