Manchester United may have made what Sir Alex Ferguson called a stuttering start to the season, but they moved into top gear in style against Everton on Saturday.

And no player was more impressive for the champions than Veron, who produced a breathtaking midfield masterclass to help United dominate most of the game.

The goal was just one of many sublime Veron moments in the first half.

Andy Cole received the ball about 40 yards out on the right and squared it to Veron.

With his first touch, the Argentine moved it forward to Roy Keane on the edge of the area.

The United captain played a one-two with Veron, who charged through the Everton defence, taking the return ball on his chest before firing with venom past Paul Gerrard in the Everton goal.

Ferguson was positively purring with admiration after the match.

"I thought he was marvellous, top drawer," the Manchester United manager said of his record signing. "He's a great player and I'm really pleased with him.