COUTINHO MAGIC, UNITED LAPSE IN CONCENTRATION

Five days after securing a slender victory that carries their hopes of lifting the FA Cup trophy over Aston Villa, Manchester United travel to Villa Park in hopes of repeating the victory.

Steven Gerrad and all of Villa were optimistic after announcing the signing of former teammate Philippe Coutinho and Everton left-back Lucas Digne. Manchester United was still without starman Christiano Ronaldo who was still struggling with the hip injury that kept him out of the Monday game.

Manchester United scored 2 minutes earlier than they did 5 days ago. Horrendous goalkeeping by Argentine Emiliano Martinez put the visitors in front in the 6th minute.

Aston Villa was finding it difficult to draw their two forwards Ollie Watkins and Danny Ings into the game making it nearly impossible to be a nuisance.

Bruno Fernandez added to his first-half goal after a misplaced pass from Morgan Sanson, the goal was against the run of play as Aston Villa were much more threatening in the second half. United looked to be running away with all 3 points until the introduction of new signing Coutinho.

The 77th strike by Jacob Ramsey assisted by Coutinho gave Manchester United something to think about and Aston Villa the urge to exert pressure on the Red devils. A sustained spell of pressure paid dividends. Ramsey repaid the Brazilian with an assist that was tucked home from a close range.

Both sides share the spoils, a fair result. A disappointing one for United who was hoping to catch up with Arsenal, West Ham and Tottenham Hotspurs in the race for the top 4. The draw keeps United rooted in 7th not far from the top 4 but not quite close. Aston Villa undoubtedly was the most pleased with the draw after going 2 nil down. Manchester United travel to the Brentford Community Stadium on Wednesday, January 19th 2022 for their 21st game of the season.
Aston Villa stay in 14th place but with a lot of belief after their performance against United.

Source: Ghana / Herosportgh.com / Affanyi Maame Abena