Memphis Depay's first-half strike has put Manchester United on course to beat Watford and take top spot in the Premier League for the time being.

The Red Devils, sometimes criticised for their style of play this season, made their intentions clear early on with two menacing crosses although Watford survived.

Officials, and players from both sides join together as 'La Marseillaise' is played for the victims of the Paris terrorist attacks ahead of the English Premier League football match between Watford and Manchester United at Vicarage Road Stadium in Watford © Getty Images

However, the Hornets nearly fell behind in comical circumstances when Allan Nyom's attempted clearance was miscued and almost dropped into the back of Heurelho Gomes's net.

United's early attacking was rewarded when Ander Herrera's pinpoint cross was met by a crisp volley from Depay, which beat a helpless Gomes.

Memphis Depay of Manchester United scores his team's first goal during the Barclays Premier League match between Watford and Manchester United at Vicarage Road on November 21, 2015 © Getty Images

Watford, who would go above Liverpool with a win at Vicarage Road, were nearly caught out again when they initially failed to clear Daley Blind's ball into the box, but Quique Flores's men remained only one down.

Instead, the hosts wasted a good chance to equalise when Ashley Young gave away possession before Odion Ighalo fired harmlessly wide, when he had a number of teammates waiting for a cross.

Memphis Depay (2nd R) of Manchester United celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the Barclays Premier League match between Watford and Manchester United at Vicarage Road on November 21, 2015 © Getty Images

The visitors suffered a blow when Herrera limped off the field, but continued indecisive defending from Watford provided Morgan Schneiderlin with another chance, only for the French midfielder's shot to miss the target.

After Troy Deeney made an acrobatic clearance to deny United once more, Etienne Capoue then missed the target at the other end when he found shooting space in the area.