The Portuguese had taken just 34 points from his previous 33 Premier League games in charge, but enjoyed a rare convincing win to give him some breathing space over the international break.

Before kick-off Old Trafford fell silent to honour the victims of a terror attack on a Manchester synagogue this week.

Amorim's bold calls with his team selection paid off as goalkeeper Senne Lammens kept a clean sheet on debut, while Mason Mount justified his place over Matheus Cunha with the opening goal.

Mount eased the home fans' tension with a fine finish from Bryan Mbeumo's cross on eight minutes.

Bruno Fernandes saw a shot tipped onto the woodwork by Robin Roefs as United dominated the first half.

Benjamin Sesko doubled the Red Devils' advantage with a predatory finish from a long throw-in for his first Old Trafford goal since a £74 million move from RB Leipzig.

There was nearly a twist at the end of the half as Sunderland were initially awarded a penalty, only for VAR to intervene due to insuffient contact by Sesko on Trai Hume.

Sunderland began the weekend in fifth after a dream start to their return to the top flight, but the Black Cats were dealt a reality check to end their four-game unbeaten run.