Man Utd match with Aston Villa halted as briefcase brought to referee mid-clash

Manchester United's Sunday afternoon clash with Aston Villa was brought to a halt after the referee's communication device stopped working mid-game.

It came just as Villa were beginning to impose themselves on what had been an otherwise dismal affair at the home of the one-time European champions.

Jaden Philogene spurned Villa's best chance of the game moments before the hosts were awarded a free-kick in a threatening position around 30 yards out from goal.

But before Villa could swing the ball into the United penalty area in search of a last-gasp winner, referee Rob Jones instructed the taker to delay the free-kick as a problem had popped up.

A lengthy stoppage ensued, with Jones requiring some touchline assistance from a mystery briefcase-carrying assistant.

In response to the help Jones was receiving, Sky Sports co-commentator Jamie Carragher proceeded on a fiery rant about the direction football was heading in.

Questioning what aid the referee was getting, Carragher exclaimed: "What is the game coming to?"

The ex-Liverpool star continued with his complaints, questioning what was in the briefcase and whether it was actually necessary for the game to continue.

It proved another disappointing day out for Erik ten Hag and co. as a blunt United slumped to their fifth match without a win.

Despite this, Ten Hag drew on the positives after the Red Devils' stalemate at Villa Park.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the Dutchman responded: "I think it's the fourth clean sheet this season. You see we had a very good organisation and togetherness. There was good character and good spirit as a team. Determined, resilient.

"We almost didn't concede a chance, when you defend like this and get some luck, in the end they had a big chance but it was almost the only chance I think."

He continued: "We created some chances, also not so many chances. We hit the crossbar and also Rashford had chances. But the two teams were really balanced.

"In Porto our build-up was brilliant, so good in the first 25 minutes, we out-played Porto. Also Palace, in possession we were so good, we have had games this season where we are good. But today we didn't create too many chances, but also we played a great team.

"We create loads of chances in our seven games but we have to step up. We have to take into consideration Hojlund is returning, he's still coming up to full fitness. But others are stepping up. I was impressed from Rashford, also Garnacho is so good, and Antony at the end."

United return to action at home to Brentford in their first fixture back after the international break.