Philippe Coutinho proved there is life in the old dog yet as he inspired Aston Villa to a 2-2 comeback draw with Manchester United.
Phillippe Coutinho made the crucial impact of the bench for Villa, on a dream Premier League return, as Steven Gerrard’s side avenged their FA Cup defeat to United.
However, despite the final tied result, it was United who had the best of it before the break as Villa struggled to keep pace with Ralf Rangnick’s men.
Bruno Fernandes’ long ranger was fumbled home by Emi Martinez before the Argentinian smartly kept out Alex Telles.
Villa did look to step it up a notch in the second 45 with David De Gea plunging down to keep out Jacob Ramsey.
But a Villa mistake allowed United to step on again late on as Fernandes strode on to bury Fred’s cut back.
However, there was to be a Coutinho inspired sting in the tail, as Villa hauled themselves back into it.
His snaking run into the box freed Ramsey to fire past De Gea before academy star repaid the favour to give the Little Magician a debut goal at the Holte End.
Full time from Villa Park it’s Aston Villa 2-2 Manchester United
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