Five things we have learnt about Manchester United this festive season

The staff at Manchester United were given Christmas Day off for the first time in almost thirty years – and it did not affect their players whatsoever going into their Boxing Day clash with Newcastle United.

A late Papiss Cisse penalty was not enough to cancel out the three goals scored by Manchester United, who looked on form and sharp.

The following game against Tottenham Hotspur seemed to only confirm what United boss Louis van Gaal had told us about the festive period – and with his men looking fatigued, questions over if there really are too many demands on the body arose.

Now United have to play Stoke away from home and whilst they are in the same boat as the rest of the league, Van Gaal has once again hit out at the festive scheduling.

Putting that aside, we have taken a look at five things the Red Devils have shown us this Christmas.

Click on Wayne Rooney to see what we have learnt.

Manchester United fans. How do you think the festive period has gone for you? Would you axe it and have a winter break instead? Let us know your thoughts below, become a guest blogger or tweet us @LaFootyettes.