Real Sociedad 0-4 Man United: Bruno Fernandes scores brace as Red Devils show class

Soccer Football - Europa League - Round of 32 First Leg - Real Sociedad v Manchester United - Allianz Stadium, Turin, Italy - February 18, 2021 Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes celebrates scoring their second goal [REUTERS/Massimo Pinca]

Bruno Fernandes' brace ensures Manchester United have all but secured their place in the next round of the Europa League.

The Red Devils saw off Real Sociedad 4-0 in Turin ahead of the return leg at Old Trafford next week.

Travel restrictions meant the contest couldn't be played in Spain, but United have fond memories of winning in the Italian city and they continued.

Fernandes's goal was able to light up what was otherwise a forgettable first-half.

Marcus Rashford spurned an early opportunity after Fernandes had set him clear.

Soccer Football - Europa League - Round of 32 First Leg - Real Sociedad v Manchester United - Allianz Stadium, Turin, Italy - February 18, 2021 Manchester United's Marcus Rashford scores their third goal [REUTERS/Massimo Pinca]

The Portuguese star later grabbed the first goal as he took advantage of some defensive indecision to slot into an empty net.

An offside flag looked set to deny him a second-half strike, but a lengthy VAR check was to his benefit and his smart finish just before the hour stood.

Rashford then atoned for his earlier miss and Daniel James grabbed a late fourth to all but secure qualification into the last 16 for the Red Devils.