Robin van Persie put the home side ahead just six minutes into the match, heading in from a rebound after Juan Mata, who was making his debut, had looked to set up Ashley Young.

Robin van Persie of Manchester United scores the opening goal during the Barclays Premier League match between Manchester United and Cardiff City at Old Trafford on January 28, 2014 © Getty Images

The Dutch international, who was returning from an 11-game injury absence, came close to adding a second shortly before half time, but just missed the target following a corner.

Frazier Campbell had a chance to get the visitors back on level terms at the start of the second half, but Patrice Evra was on hand to clear the danger.

United doubled their lead just three minutes later, as Young played his way in from out wide before picking out the bottom right corner.

Ashley Young of Manchester United scores his team's second goal during the Barclays Premier League match between Manchester United and Cardiff City at Old Trafford on January 28, 2014 © Getty Images

Wayne Rooney came off the bench for the final 25 minutes of the match, and had a good chance to extend the hosts' lead with a 25-yard effort, but it curled just wide.

Valencia also came close to adding a third for United, but David Marshall managed to get his fingertips to the ball, nudging the strike onto the post to deny the midfielder.

The home side continued to press deep into stoppage time, with half-chances for Rooney and Adnan Januzaj late on, but they were unable to find a third.