Manchester United vs Crystal Palace: Five Things we learned from today's game

5. He is BACK

Wayne Rooney: Back to his best!

Yes, Wayne Rooney is truly back to his scintillating best. His importance in the team is evident from the quiet smile of satisfaction that lit up Moyes’ face when Rooney scored a peach of a free kick to settle the match. Rooney at his best is probably amongst the top 5 footballers in Europe, right now, and it is no wonder that Moyes has worked so hard to keep him at United.

His performance on the field today was proof of his rare talent and undying determination- falling back for defensive work, sprinting forward for a lightning fast counter, driving past defenders and striking camaraderie with the lone striker up front. His long range pass from almost 40 yards that found van Persie’s feet just a few minutes before half time was reminiscent of that delicious goal last season.

Not everyone can turn from an out and out striker into one of the best midfielders in the world but for Rooney it has been an easy transition. He is undoubtedly the hardest working player on the pitch for United right now, and him maintaining his top notch form could well go a long way in determining United’s domestic and European success this year. If he can keep his ego in check, and pull the strings from behind the curtains while van Persie keeps the galleries entertained, Moyes may well lift a major trophy come May next year.