Manchester United would be foolish to act like everything is okay again after victory away at Brentford, but that doesn't mean they can't enjoy what was a refreshing second-half performance in which Ralf Rangnick's side asserted their dominance. in a manner rarely seen this season.
Bees boss Thomas Frank labelled United as 'incredibly lucky' for weathering the early storm and producing a second-half sting of their own. The fact that it was so precarious only made victory sweeter at full-time.
All three goals were scored by United academy graduates, though it was one who didn't get on the score sheet who managed to steal the show with a commanding performance throughout.
After a pitiful midfield showing against Aston Villa last weekend, Rangnick had no hesitation in bringing Scott McTominay back into the line-up following his suspension. It was a change that was always likely to happen, yet it was still of immense importance.
McTominay, 25, produced a Man of the Match display in the heart of midfield, showcasing exactly what he has to offer and exactly why the last three managers have all shown continued faith in him since.
The Scotland international has been hard done by during his United career and has been made an easy target on countless occasions, a result of the shortfalls of the club rather than himself.
McTominay, like midfield partner Fred, is an effective squad player who can do the dirty work, but because of United's lack of midfield investment, both have been over-relied upon and exploited by system failure.
The divisive duo both have roles to play in the wider squad, but United are well aware they are in need of at least two new midfield signings this year, possibly even a third should Paul Pogba and Donny van de Beek seek pastures new at the end of the season.
Roy Keane ruthlessly warned that United 'will not be winning any big trophies' while Fred and McTominay are in their midfield. He is being proven right given their obvious shortcomings. However, they might still win trophies with one of them in there.
The issue for United is identifying which of Fred or McTominay should be a mainstay in their side going forward. Both have showcased their ability to influence the game in an attacking sense, with neither particularly excelling in the anchoring role on a regular basis.
Going forward, it seems United will need Bruno Fernandes, one of McFred and a specialist defensive midfielder, if they are to strike a balance. The pressure is on for one of them to come out on top.
Each week, it seems like the tables turn as one player outperforms the other, with United supporters pretty evenly split on which midfielder to root for.
With the expectation of new midfield signings this year, there might not be much left of the reliable, yet restrictive, McFred axis, but that doesn't mean either of them will be on their way out of Old Trafford either.
United's most notorious partnership could soon be fighting for the same place.
