Fletcher replaces Fortune for United

Everton, without a win over Manchester United for 10 years, needed to change that run of form to take advantage of Liverpool and Bolton dropping points in the three-strong race for fourth spot in the Barclays Premiership.

The Toffees were without skipper Alan Stubbs and full-back Alessandro Pistone, both injured, meaning Steve Watson and Joseph Yobo played in defence.

James Beattie returned to the bench after his knee injury alongside Leon Osman and 16-year-old James Vaughan, with David Moyes reverting to a 4-4-2 formation.

United made one change from the side which reached the FA Cup final with Sunday’s demolition of Newcastle.

Darren Fletcher came into the starting line-up at the expense of Quinton Fortune, who replaced the injured Ryan Giggs amongst the substitutes.