Manchester United took the sting out of their fans’ latest protest against the Glazer family as they eased to a 3-0 win over Brentford on Monday.

Ahead of a summer of change for troubled United, Ralf Rangnick’s side won for just the second time in seven games to keep the atmosphere from turning toxic at Old Trafford.

After such a wretched run, United needed a fast start to lift the gloom a little and they took just nine minutes to go in front.

Anthony Elanga beat Brentford’s offside trap as he raced on to Diogo Dalot’s pass.

He reached the ball just before it went out for a goal-kick and whipped a superb cross towards Fernandes, who volleyed home from six yards for his first league goal since February.

Brentford, making their first visit to Old Trafford in 47 years, almost exposed United’s leaky defence when Christian Eriksen swung in a cross that Ivan Toney headed just over.

After several listless displays, this was a more energetic effort from United and Mata fired narrowly wide from Ronaldo’s flamboyant pass.

Ronaldo epitomised United’s verve as he tracked back to halt a dangerous attack from the visitors.

He won a penalty in the 60th minute as he powered past Rico Henry and was crudely barged to the turf by the Brentford defender.

Picking himself up, Ronaldo sent David Raya the wrong way from the spot.

The Portugal striker has scored nine of United’s last 11 league goals, taking his tally for the season to 24 in all competitions.

With the United fans’ much-hyped walkout just seconds away, Varane volleyed the third goal from a corner in the 72nd minute.

That appeared to take the sting out of the revolt, with Matic and Mata departing to standing ovations when they were substituted.

It was a rare feelgood moment in a season of strife at Old Trafford.