Jean-Philippe Mateta’s retaken penalty had put Palace ahead at half-time, but United responded through Zirkzee’s sharp chest-and-volley finish before Mason Mount struck the winner from a cleverly-worked free-kick. The result lifts United to within a point of fourth place, while leaving Palace frustrated after another energy-draining week in Europe.

The hosts thought they’d made the perfect start when Mateta fired home from the spot after being tripped by Leny Yoro. But VAR spotted a double touch, wiping the goal out under the Premier League’s new rule.

Mateta kept his cool, stepped up again and this time sent Senne Lammens the wrong way to give Palace a deserved lead.

United came out with greater urgency after the break and were rewarded when Bruno Fernandes’ free-kick caused confusion in the area. Zirkzee controlled superbly on his chest before driving a fierce strike past Dean Henderson his first Premier League goal since December last year and a huge release of pressure on the Dutch forward.

United’s growing confidence turned into a winner midway through the second half. Fernandes rolled a disguised free-kick into Mount’s path, and the substitute drilled low through a disorganized Palace wall to turn the game on its head.

It was United’s 10th set-piece goal of the season, matching Arsenal’s record and underlining Ruben Amorim’s clear emphasis on dead-ball efficiency.

Oliver Glasner’s side once again looked short of spark following their midweek Conference League duty. Palace have yet to win a league match immediately after a European fixture, and it showed particularly in the final stages as they chased shadows against a rejuvenated United midfield.

The biggest roar from the travelling support came with the introduction of Lisandro Martínez for the final minutes. The defender, back after a long injury layoff, was welcomed like a returning hero and helped United sees out a nervy ending.

After a season of mixed performances and injuries, this win feels significant for United and for Amorim. Zirkzee’s long-awaited goal, Mount’s sharp return to form and Martínez’s comeback add timely optimism heading into a crucial festive run.