5 Things We Learned From Manchester United's Thumping Win Over Leverkusen

Manchester United smashed Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen 5-0 tonight in the Champions League, so here are five things that we learned from the tie.

1) United are contenders

A thumping win like this - against a very, very strong side may I add - is something to be proud of. Leverkusen sit second in the Bundesliga and have proved incredibly tough to break down, but United dealt with them with ease. They are now through to their next round and aren't to be taken lightly.

2) Moyes can keep clean sheets

They have struggled at the back this season at points but tonight proved that they can stand up and get stuck in. It's not as though the home side didn't have shots - they had 10 - it was a case of a solid showing from the back four.

3) Evans is a unit

At the heart of that defensive unit was Irishman Jonny Evans. He made nine clearances, two interceptions and completed 86% of his passes, as well as scoring himself.

4) Nani can still put in a shift

The Portugal international put in a real effort tonight, making six interceptions, competing in seven headed duels and won 3/4 of his take ons. Like Evans, he thoroughly deserved his goal.

5) The midfield isn't as weak as people think

In total, the United side made 25 interceptions tonight and the majority of those came in the middle of the pitch. They also won 10 headers, made 34 clearances and showed how effective they can be when they pull together. 

stats via Squawka