Manchester United Make Premier League History In Thrilling 4-4 Draw With Villa

Manchester United made unwanted Premier League history after twice coming from two goals down to draw 4-4 with Aston Villa in a remarkable encounter at Old Trafford.

United became the first team to trail by two goals and draw level twice in the same Premier League match, rescuing a point through two late goals after appearing destined for defeat.

However, the comeback was not enough to lift Michael Carrick’s side out of the relegation zone before the international break.

United are now guaranteed to spend at least 15 consecutive days in the bottom three, their longest spell in the Premier League relegation zone since September and October 1986, when they spent 28 days there.

The draw also extended a miserable run for the club, who have won just one of their opening 10 league matches despite finishing in the top three last season. They are the first top-flight team to suffer that fate since Arsenal in the 1953/54 campaign.

United’s defensive struggles have been equally alarming. They have conceded 30 goals in all competitions this season, more than any other club in Europe’s five major leagues.

Despite the latest setback, former England striker and Premier League pundit Michael Owen believes Carrick has managed to restore some fight in the team.

“Going into the international break in the relegation zone just doesn’t have a good ring to it, does it?” Owen said.

He suggested the next few days could be crucial in determining Carrick’s future, with Manchester United potentially considering their managerial options.

“If Man Utd were looking, searching, testing the market for a new manager in recent times, some would say this is the time to do it. I think the next couple of days are going to be pivotal,” he added.

“But what we can’t deny is that Michael Carrick has gotten a tune out of these players in the last couple of days. They’re fighting for him, they’re absolutely fighting for him.

“The fans are behind him, the players certainly played until the last second, if he’s going out, he’s going out on his sword.”

For Aston Villa, the result will feel like two points dropped. Unai Emery’s men twice established two-goal advantages and appeared on course to claim only their fifth Premier League victory at Old Trafford before United’s late fightback denied them.