Manchester United visited Portugal knowing that their recent away form in the Premier League has not been of the standard of Champions. Sir Alex Ferguson was given a boost to his squad as England striker Wayne Rooney returned to fitness, news that would also be music to the ears of England manager Steve McClaren.

Cristiano Ronaldo Returns Home To Sporting Lisbon

Rooney managed to play for over seventy minutes before being replaced by Louis Saha. However it was the return of another prodigal son that helped United fly back to Manchester with all three points. Cristiano Ronaldo headed home the goal that was the difference between his old club and his current employer. Wes Brown provided the cross that Ronaldo guided home just after the hour mark.

Although Sporting Lisbon had more attempts on target they were not as threatening as the statistics read, although they did force Van Der Sar in to making some top class saves. United more specifically Ronaldo were more deadly with their attack, ensuring their perfect start to this seasons European campaign.