Man Utd v Charlton photos

1 of 8 David Beckham brings an expectant Old Trafford to its feet as his deflected shot hits the back of the net after 11 minutes

2 of 8 Beckham celebrates jubilantly as Man Utd take a crucial step towards the title

3 of 8 The Old Trafford crowd is stunned just two minutes later when Roy Carroll's sloppy clearance allows Claus Jensen to level

4 of 8 Sir Alex Ferguson is left stoney-faced as his stand-in keeper allows the visitors an unexpected way back into the match

5 of 8 Normal service is resumed as Ruud van Nistelrooy hooks home his 41st goal of the season from six yards to restore the lead

6 of 8 Van Nistelrooy strikes again before the break with a smart finish to put Man Utd firmly in the driving seat

7 of 8 The Dutchman completes his hat-trick in the second half as Man Utd switch to cruise control

8 of 8 Fergie is all smiles as the comprehensive win means Arsenal have to win their last three games to deny Man Utd the title