There was a time when it seemed as though United were prepared to play along with the gag. To put that into context, United's fellow 'big six' clubs have all won five times on the bounce in recent memory. Even Tottenham, whose form has been atrocious for 18 months now, managed it early last season, when United were one of the teams they beat. One supporter was given an indefinite ban from Old Trafford by United for attacking Ilett on a concourse at the home game with Chelsea in September 2025. However, many have defended Ilett and most responses to his appearance on the leading Stretford Paddock podcast were positive.

Source: BBC February 11, 2026 04:40 UTC