WAYNE ROONEY averted a supporters’ mutiny by ending Manchester United’s scoring drought to secure a crucial 1-0 win over CSKA Moscow.
Rooney headed home Jesse Lingard's cushioned cross in the 79th minute to claim United's first goal for 404 minutes and take his side to the summit of Group B.
At times, it was an uncomfortable evening for United manager Louis van Gaal, who had to endure an outpouring of anger from Old Trafford as his decision to replace Anthony Martial with Marouane Fellaini at 0-0 was met by a crescendo of boos.
The Stretford End chanted: "We want to attack, we want to attack, we're Man United, we want to attack" although Van Gaal insisted his substitution of the French youngster was vindicated by Rooney's goal.
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| Rooney celebrates after scoring United's winner |
"Of course I heard it, I am not deaf," said Van Gaal. "That is the opinion of the fans, but afterwards they shall not be disappointed with the decision of the manager.
"I back all my players, not only Wayne Rooney. I am very happy because I put him again in the striker's position and he scored.
"It was a fantastic goal, the preparation was fantastic: the tackle of Marcos Rojo, the pass of Michael Carrick, the cutback of Jesse Lingard and the header of Rooney.
"I am very happy about the performance of my players and also a result that means we are top of the group."
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| David de Gea denies Seydou Doumbia |
Rooney's seventh goal of the season saw him draw level with Denis Law on 237 goals and joint-second on United's all-time scoring list.
It came just a minute after CSKA substitute Seydou Doumbia had been denied by David de Gea and then a brilliant goalline clearance from Chris Smalling.
"It is a relief because you have seen an attacking Manchester United creating a lot of chances against a very good, organised team," added Van Gaal.
"It is always difficult to score goals and then we have to wait a long time.
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| Louis van Gaal was pleased with Wayne Rooney's performance |
"We controlled the match for 89 minutes but one minute we didn't control and you could have been defeated again. If Doumbia scores, then I am sitting here very differently.
"But we deserved it totally. I am relieved but also proud. In the golden years of Manchester United I have read they never won against a Russian team at home. Everyone thinks it is easy. It is not easy.
"I am very happy about the performance of my players and also the result and also that we are top of the group."
On equalling Law's haul, United skipper Rooney added: "Obviously Denis Law is a legend at this club and to equal his goal-scoring record is a huge honour for me and I am delighted with it.
"We are top of the group and it is a big three points. We have a big game coming up against PSV Eindhoven now. If we win that, it will give us qualification."
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