The former West Brom frontman – who scored 24 goals in the Midlands during a loan spell two seasons back – popped up with a sublime header late on to seal all three points after a patchy display at St James’ Park.
How did the Newcastle players perform? Miles Starforth rates them all out of 10...
1. Martin Dubravka - 6
At fault for Man United’s first goal, beaten at his near post by a shot from Martial, kept the score down after that. Photo: PAUL ELLIS
2. Fabian Schar - 4
Two first-half errors cost Newcastle two goals, looked out of sorts. Photo: Tom Purslow
3. Federico Fernandez - 6
Captained the team in the absence of Lascelles, Dummett, Shelvey and Carroll, steadier than some of his team-mates. Photo: PAUL ELLIS
4. Florian Lejeune - 6
Came through his second league came in eight months unscathed physically. Photo: Mark Runnacles