Varane seals Man Utd win as VAR controversially denies Wolves penalty

Raphael Varane’s close-range header secured a 1-0 win for Manchester United despite an unconvincing performance against unfancied Wolves at Old Trafford.

Gary O'Neil's visitors had the better of the chances before Varane's 76th-minute winner, with Matheus Cunha spurning a golden opportunity to put Wolves ahead early in the second half in what was a lively performance by the Brazilian forward.

Erik ten Hag had stressed the need for his team to "raise the bar" before kick-off but it was a passive display from United in front of their own supporters. It took a good pass from Bruno Fernandes to unlock things, Aaron Wan-Bissaka's cross finding Varane

There were still opportunities for Wolves as substitute Fabio Silva twice forced United's new goalkeeper Andre Onana into smart saves late in the game. There was even a stoppage-time penalty check when Onana clattered into Sasa Kalajdzic while failing to claim the ball.

O'Neil was booked for his complaints but he will be heartened even in defeat. Wolves' 23 shots are the most by an away side at Old Trafford since Chelsea in 2005.