Manchester United’s trip to Leeds was heavily disrupted as TNT Sports lost audio for several minutes in the first half. Match footage continued to play live without any noise from Elland Road or the commentary team, as a message below flashed up at the bottom of the screen: “We apologise for the loss of sound and hope to correct the fault shortly.”
During the downtime, Benjamin Sesko had a good chance squandered to break the deadlock, as both sides contributed to a fiery start as fierce rivals locked horns once again. Darren Fletcher, commentator for the broadcaster, joked upon his return to the airwaves that he was looking forward to the barrage of messages from viewers on social media.
Moments earlier, Dominic Calvert-Lewin had the best chance to give the hosts the lead and extend his stunning run of form for Leeds.
Brendan Aaronson found the ball in a pocket of space on the edge of the area. The American played the ball across to his striker, who poked an effort at goal, but it flew over the bar after a strong challenge from Leny Yoro. Calvert-Lewin then hit the post with a header in the 35th minute.
The Red Devils were desperate for three points in Leeds, which would put them ahead of Liverpool in the top-four race, though Arne Slot‘s side still have to play Fulham later in the day.
United had won just one of their previous five matches before travelling to Yorkshire, while a mounting injury crisis has forced Ruben Amorim into playing some unfamiliar players.
Before the match, Amorim refused to discuss the prospect of bringing players in during the January transfer window to reinforce his squad.
“I have the feeling if we have to play a perfect 3-4-3, we need to spend a lot of money and we need time,” he said. “I’m starting to understand that is not going to happen. So, maybe I have to adapt.”
When asked about potential incomings, the head coach replied: “I don’t want to talk about that. I just focus on the Leeds game.”
He was then probed over previous statements he made, and questioned if he regretted them: “I don’t want to talk about that.”
After a brief pause, he added: “But you are very smart, so…”