In one of the most entertaining Premier League games in recent history, Manchester United came back from two goals down on two separate occasions to eventually clinch a point after a 4-4 draw against Aston Villa on Sunday.
It was the visitors who took the lead, and they soon doubled their advantage within the opening five minutes. Both strikes were due to Senne Lammens, whose struggles in goal continued.
But, as was the case against AS Roma in midweek, the Red Devils fought back in dramatic fashion. Goals from Bruno Fernandes and Youri Tielemans ensured the hosts went into the break level.
Fans inside Old Trafford would have expected the players to come out and go for the kill in the second half, but it was anything but that.
Dalot continues to let United down
Diogo Dalot conceded a ridiculous penalty, and then Leon Goretzka added a fourth, all within the first eight minutes of the restart.
The Theatre of Dreams started emptying, but the home side were not done yet. Patrick Dorgu, who replaced the abysmal Dalot, assisted Joshua Zirkzee before scoring the equaliser, both in added time.
It has been well established that Michael Carrick‘s job was under threat, and a loss tonight could have meant his departure was assured.
However, the way the team responded in both halves showed that the squad is still supporting him and playing for him.
INEOS have let Carrick down
There are concerns tactically and in terms of mentality, but for now, the head coach might have done enough to convince INEOS to keep him at the helm.
United are 19th in the Premier League table, and the co-owners have a decision to make. But the fans know who to blame.
Shocking recruitment from the board in the summer and senior players underperforming is why United are where they are currently.
The defensive errors on show tonight just highlighted why everyone wanted more defensive signings in the summer.
Dalot needs to be sold immediately
It is high time Dalot is sold and no wonder he was booed off tonight. The co-owners should ensure defensive reinforcements in January.
It is clear that Carrick might not be the long-term answer, but half the squad need to go first. Whoever eventually replaces the current boss will know immediately who the pretenders are.
Feature image Carl Recine via Getty Images
