Manchester United achieved a historic feat during their match against Aston Villa on Sunday, albeit going largely unnoticed. The Red Devils secured their third consecutive victory, with Scott McTominay emerging as the match-winner off the bench.
The scoring began with Rasmus Hojlund netting his 11th goal of the season, only for Douglas Luiz to level the scores later on. However, it was McTominay’s decisive contribution that sealed the win.
Despite a commendable defensive performance from Harry Maguire, who was named Man of the Match, it was a kit decision that marked a Premier League first for United at Villa Park, reminiscent of a choice not seen since 1957.
United typically dons their white away strip, which includes white shorts and socks. However, a clash with Villa’s white shorts prompted a deviation from the norm.
United opted to wear red shorts, a choice not seen since they donned them 67 years ago during European Cup semi-final fixtures against Real Madrid.
This historic decision is believed to have influenced Liverpool’s adoption of an all-red kit. According to UnitedKits.com, the red shorts were first tested in a league game against Bolton Wanderers.
Remarkably, before this season, United had never paired red shorts with a white shirt in a league match, having always worn them with their red home kit.
The red shorts were previously seen in action during the thrilling 3-3 Champions League draw against Galatasaray back in November. United will return to action next Sunday when they face Luton Town at Old Trafford.