Manchester United 3-0 Bournemouth: Three things we learned

Manchester United cruised through Bournemouth last night with an effective performance that cemented their place in the top four.

The Red Devils knew hosting a relegation-threatened side was never going to be easy - or, at least, that's what they assumed. As such, they went out there and put a real stamp on their authority by completing the Cherries' challenge with relative ease.

Today we're going to take a look at some of the biggest takeaways as the elite continue to catch up after the winter break.

Patience is the key

Manchester United's style of football is sometimes not pleasant to watch. Unfortunately for their fanbase, that's what it has to look like, and they're starting to learn it. United had to bide their time and while it may not have worked too well against the big boys, it definitely allowed them to stay calm - even in the later stages when Bournemouth were starting to put on a bit of pressure.

> Bournemouth Misfortunes

After a positive start to the proceedings, Bournemouth conceded again with a free-kick they have taken more than 10 times this season. From then on, they seemed to decrease somewhat, which, all things considered, is a shame. There is definitely some obvious talent within this squad, but they need to stabilize the ship in January. They have to solve the defensive problems first and then, if they can, bring in someone who can find the back of the net.

The start of something?

Manchester United have now won four consecutive Premier League titles. They are five points clear of fifth place and they are just nine points behind Arsenal. A title run is probably pretty unlikely, but at the very least they show massive improvements under Erik ten Hag. If they can keep this momentum going, they're looking at an incredibly positive end to the campaign by May.