Steve Bruce hopes to put a "tough few weeks" behind him after netting three points at Everton.
A much improved display, which coincided with the arrival of new coach Graeme Jones, secured the club's first win 11 games in all competitions.
Callum Wilson's brace sealed the victory on Merseyside but he could have had a hat-trick after hitting the woodwork.
Bruce said: "Well, when you come here you know you’ll have to play well to get a result.
"We’ve seen signs of improvement, in the second half against Villa and especially against Leeds.
"Plus, getting people back fit is really important.
"The way the players came back was excellent, we’ve had a very tough past few weeks."
United took the lead when Wilson's perfect header beat Jordan Pickford on 73 minutes from a Jonjo Shelvey corner.
He said: "That set-piece, it’s something we’ve been trying to improve on.
"All-round today, we had some really big players. They all played their part, that was the most important thing.
"There’s no disputing, it’s been very difficult. When you’re on a bad run in the Premier League it’s difficult whether you’re Arteta or Lampard.
"You have to be brave and make these decisions.
"We’re trying to be more on the front foot and push up the pitch. That's something we want to do more. We’re a lot better."
