'Top class' Ronaldo and Cavani match records and provide Man United with winning formula

The pair were outstanding as they combined well up front in United's 3-0 victory over Tottenham in a much needed performance after the embarrassing defeat to Liverpool last weekend.

Both got on the scoresheet while Ronaldo also got an assist as Solskjaer's formation change to a back three proved effective.

Ronaldo also became the oldest Premier League player since Didier Drogba to get a goal and an assist in a league game when the Chelsea man did so in December 2014 - with them both 36 years and 267 days and also against Tottenham.

The Portugal superstar set up Cavani's goal and it was the first time two players over 34 have combined for a goal at the club since Paul Scholes set up Ryan Giggs in August 2010.

It was a more defensive set up from Manchester United than we are used to, especially with the attacking talents at Solskjaer's disposal.

Speaking to talkSPORT after the game, the Norwegian said: "We need to be more solid and keep more clean sheets. It was about trying to control the game.

"Have the width and have the wingbacks, have three centre-backs who are comfortable on the ball.

"Tried to switch the ball from side to side and that worked when it worked. If it doesn't it gets ripped to pieces."

He added: "We can talk about systems and tactics and all sorts, but that pass from Bruno and finish from Cristiano was top, top class.

"That pass from Cristiano to Edi (Cavani) and the timing of his run and finish was top class again.

"Marcus has had lots of time by himself to work on his finishing because of his shoulder injury.

"All the goals he has scored so far this season, he is so calm and composed and is clinical."

Ronaldo also spoke after his brilliant performance and hopes it will be the turning point for the team.

"It was tough," he said. "We didn't expect the last result in the Premier League. But, you know, I hope this time we turn the page.

"I believe that some things happen for a reason and we have to be happy for this amazing afternoon. We have won 3-0 in an away stadium against a difficult team and we are so, so pleased for that."

He continued: "The criticisms are always there.

"For me, it doesn't bother me because I have played 18 years of football, so I know that one day [people will say] we are perfect and another day [they will say] we are crap.

"I know that and we have to deal with that, but it's always better when the people praise you and they are happy with you.

"Sometimes life is like that, sometimes we have to pass through bad moments and we have to change and we changed today."