Gerrard was back at Old Trafford for the first time since his playing days
It’s fair to say that Steven Gerrard probably isn’t on the list of people most welcome at Old Trafford, so it was no surprise to hear the Manchester United fans boo him as he walked out the tunnel on Monday night.
Gerrard was back their as his Aston Villa took on United in the third round of the FA Cup – the former Liverpool legend’s first trip back since his playing days.
As the former Liverpool captain emerged from the tunnel to walk to the dugout, there was no sign of any love lost from the home fans as a chorus of jeers came from all four corners of the ground.
An #EmiratesFACup 𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗱 returns 🙌#EmiratesFACup pic.twitter.com/397cqwa3ou
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) January 10, 2022
But just like his playing days, Gerrard’s face painted a picture of steel as he didn’t seem one-bit phased by the taunts – instead turning around to soak in the volatile atmosphere.
Despite his wry smile, his side got off the worse start possible as Scott McTominay opened the scoring after he combined with his midfield partner Fred to cushion home a header from the Brazilian’s cross.
Can’t get over how good this cross from Fred is 🔥
Lovely guided header from McTominay too pic.twitter.com/SH1GpDDthz
— FootballJOE (@FootballJOE) January 10, 2022
Despite taking the lead, United have spent the majority of the game on the back foot as Villa tested the water with several efforts.
The second half saw two goals ruled out for the away side – the first after a lengthy look from VAR as Michael Oliver spotted Jacob Ramsey holding back Edinson Cavani in the build-up to the goal.
Villa then promptly had another goal ruled out just minutes later as Ollie Watkins tapped home Danny Ings’ effort from an offside position.
At the time of writing, United still remain 1-0 up.
