Manchester United return to Champions League with 4-0 win

Manchester United marked their return to the Champions League with an emphatic 4-0 victory over Azerbaijani debutants Sabah at Old Trafford.

The three-time European champions were playing in UEFA's premier club competition for the first time in three seasons and quickly made their experience count, taking a commanding three-goal lead into half-time.

Matheus Cunha opened the scoring in the 27th minute, tapping home from Patrick Dorgu's low cross after United had endured a relatively subdued opening.

The goal settled some early nerves among the home supporters, although Sabah threatened to level shortly afterwards. Kaheem Parris burst into the penalty area and delivered an inviting cross to Joy-Lance Mickels, but the Sabah forward was unable to convert his headed opportunity.

United doubled their advantage through captain Bruno Fernandes, who finished off a flowing passing move as the home side began to gain control.

Benjamin Sesko then added a third just before the interval. The Slovakian striker was played through on goal, rounded the goalkeeper and, despite being under pressure and having the option of going to ground, stayed on his feet before finishing from a difficult angle.

United continued to dominate after the break, although the tempo dropped as the result became increasingly secure.

Cunha came close to scoring his second when his curling effort from outside the penalty area was comfortably dealt with by the goalkeeper. Fernandes went close moments later with a similar attempt.

The fourth goal eventually arrived following a corner, with Lisandro Martinez reacting quickest during a scramble in the penalty area to tap the ball over the line.

Sabah had a late opportunity to claim a consolation goal, but Parris sent a low effort across the face of goal rather than forcing United goalkeeper into a save.

The comfortable victory also allowed manager Michael Carrick to manage his squad ahead of Sunday's Manchester derby.

United made only three changes from the team that drew 2-2 with Everton in the Premier League on Sunday, but Carrick was able to use all five substitutions with more than 20 minutes remaining as the hosts protected key players.

Despite the convincing Champions League result, the performance does not completely disguise United's inconsistent start to the Premier League campaign. The club have collected only four points from their opening three league matches.

The challenge will be considerably greater on Sunday when Manchester City arrive at Old Trafford for the first Manchester derby of the season.