Second-half goals from Darren Fletcher, Gabriel Obertan and Bebe extended United's unbeaten record in all competitions to 23 and ensured they only require a draw against Rangers at Ibrox on November 24 to claim their customary place in the knockout phase with a game to spare.
And, as Nani is already rated doubtful to face Wolves on Saturday after limping off with a groin injury midway through the opening period, Sir Alex Ferguson must have been delighted that two of his back-up wide-men followed up Fletcher's opener - only his second Champions League goal in his 50th appearance in the competition - to seal a comfortable win.