Viral Manchester United fan’s 500-day wait for haircut continues as club’s four-game winning streak comes to an end

Michael Carrick’s winning start to life as Manchester United caretaker manager has come to a crashing halt.

The Red Devils were denied a fifth straight victory by West Ham United on Tuesday night.

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Carrick had seen his side beat Manchester City, Arsenal, Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur since his return to the club last month.

However, he was unable to make it five wins in a row at the London Stadium.

His side had looked destined for a first Premier League defeat of the year before Benjamin Sesko’s equaliser in the sixth minute of stoppage time salvaged a point.

It means United are now unbeaten in their last nine league outings, a run which dates back to Ruben Amorim‘s reign.

Devastation for The United Strand

They were unable to grab the win which would have ended the ordeal of viral United fan Frank Ilett.

The Red Devils supporter, known as The United Strand online, vowed not to cut his hair until his beloved club won five games in a row.

Having began his challenge on October 5, 2024, it has now been 493 days since his last haircut.

Ilett had hoped that run would finally end on Tuesday, but watched on in despair as Tomas Soucek put the home side in front.

Livestreaming the match on YouTube, he could be seen with his head in his hands after the Hammers took the lead early in the second half.

His celebrations were then cut short moments later as Casemiro saw his goal ruled out by VAR.

The United Strand / YouTube

The Brazilian midfielder’s effort was chalked off for offside following the review.

Although he was denied a much-needed trip to the barbers, Ilett would see his side rescue a draw.

Sesko was the first player to connect with Bryan Mbeumo’s cross, diverting the ball into the top corner.

It means Ilett will have to wait at least another 38 days before he can get the clippers out.

The result is enough to keep United in the top four, with Chelsea surrendering a two-goal lead to draw with Leeds United.

Unwanted United history

However, the Red Devils have made unwanted history by failing to beat West Ham in the league for a second successive season.

The United Strand / YouTube

It is the first time in 92 years that the Hammers have avoided defeat against United in consecutive campaigns.

They last achieved the feat during the 1932/33 and 1933/34 seasons.

Prior to their draw on Tuesday, the two sides also played out a 1-1 stalemate at Old Trafford back in December.

Meanwhile, West Ham won home and away against United last season.