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Cristiano Ronaldo made his comeback after ankle surgery and almost set up Jonny Evans for a late winner, only for the youngster to head against the post.
Guille Franco sent a flick against an upright on the hour as Villarreal provided stubborn resistance. But the main plus for United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was a vibrant 25-minute cameo from the returning Ronaldo.
He now looks like he has put himself in the frame for a place in United's starting line-up for Sunday's clash with Premier League leaders Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.