soccer

United Manager and Captain Downplay Table Climb

United’s manager Michael Carrick and captain Bruno Fernandes urged the team to stay focused after a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace, noting they sit level with Aston Villa on 51 points.

Manchester United edged above Aston Villa on goal difference after a hard‑fought 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Old Trafford. The win left United and Villa level on 51 points in third and fourth place, separated only by goal difference.

Manager Michael Carrick and captain Bruno Fernandes cautioned against premature celebration, stressing the need to keep progressing and focus on Champions League qualification ahead of the Villa visit on March 15.