The Swede left Old Trafford to make way for big money signing Antony two years ago and played like he had a point to prove at the City Ground, scoring what proved to be the winner, having run two thirds of the pitch, just five minutes in.

Diogo Dalot’s first-half header came out off the crossbar, while substitute Mason Mount fizzed a late strike wide, but otherwise the below-par visitors were again lacking the cutting edge they need to rectify their miserable season.

The victory helps Forest continue their remarkable campaign, with Nuno Espirito Santo’s third-placed side now eight points clear of Chelsea in fourth, while United’s first league loss in five leaves them 13th in the standings.