Advertisement
Carrick, Rashford and Blind leave the field dejected after Saturday's game.

Jones: Arsenal draw felt like a 6-0 slapping for Man Utd

The Red Devils defender admits dropping two points made the draw feel like a defeat for Jose Mourinho’s men.

PHIL JONES SAYS Manchester United felt like they had been ‘slapped 6-0’ after conceding a late equaliser in Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal.

The Red Devils had dominated a largely cagey affair at Old Trafford, and edged in front when Juan Mata swept home midway through the second half.

That effort looked like it would be enough for Jose Mourinho’s side to take all three points and for the Portuguese coach to celebrate another victory over old adversary Arsene Wenger.

It was not to be, though, as Olivier Giroud stepped off the bench to snatch a share of the spoils and leave United deflated.

England international Jones said afterwards: “It feels like we’ve been slapped 6-0.

“We completely dominated the game from start to finish.

“I thought even when they had a spell of possession they never really created anything to test us. We defended well, created chances and it was just one of those things. They got one chance and scored.”

A stalemate on home soil prevented United from closing on the Premier League’s top four, with there is still a six-point gap separating them from the Champions League places.

Manchester United v Arsenal - Premier League - Old Trafford Dave Howarth Dave Howarth

They have now taken just one win from their last six top-flight fixtures, to sit sixth, but Jones insists there is still plenty of cause for optimism with there still two thirds of the season to come.

“There’s no need to panic yet,” he added.

“We’ve been playing well and creating chances, it’s just that bit of luck that we need and hopefully it will come soon.

“We have to pick ourselves up. We’re pleased with the performance, but not with the result.

“If we’d won then we’d be three points behind Arsenal. Arsenal have had a world-class season and we’re supposed to have had an average season – that’s just the way the Premier League works. But we’re pleased with the performance. We created chances and probably should have scored more.”

United are in the midst of a hectic run which sees them taking in Premier League, Europa League and EFL Cup competition.

They are, however, taking in a four-game stretch of fixtures at Old Trafford and will be aware of the need to establish momentum in front of their own supporters.

The42 is on Instagram! Tap the button below on your phone to follow us!

Matthaus criticises Hummels’ dressing room drop-in

Mata has earned Mourinho’s trust, says Giggs

Author
View 6 comments
Close
6 Comments
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.