Owen expects key days for Carrick after United draw

Manchester United recovered from two goals down twice to draw 4-4 with Aston Villa at Old Trafford on November 8, but the result left them third from bottom in the Premier League. Former United striker Michael Owen said the next couple of days could be decisive for manager Michael Carrick as the international break begins.

Villa raced into a 2-0 lead within four minutes. Carrick’s side levelled before halftime, then fell behind 4-2 eight minutes into the second half. United scored twice in stoppage time to salvage a point.

Owen said United’s position heading into the break put pressure on the club’s co-owners, INEOS, to consider their options. He also pointed to the players’ effort and support from the crowd, saying the team had shown character and that Carrick had not lost the dressing room. United have collected eight points from 10 league matches under Carrick this season.

Everton defender James Tarkowski said United had given away goals at the start of both halves, but also praised the team’s commitment and late response. He said conceding four at home would hurt, while the fightback suggested the players were still playing for Carrick.

United forward Matheus Cunha said the team were disappointed not to win and needed to stop conceding early. He said the players had discussed defending better, and called for more courage and a stronger mentality from the start of matches.