Michael Owen rips into “lackadaisical” United star over costly blunder in 1-1 Leeds draw

Former Manchester United star Michael Owen has criticised Ayden Heaven over his role in Leeds’ goal during Sunday’s 1-1 draw at Elland Road. United salvage a point United came back from behind to secure a point against Daniel Farke’s men. Brenden Aaronson put United on the back foot shortly after the hour mark when he broke in behind their defence to calmly slot the ball into the bottom corner. A costly misunderstanding between Diogo Dalot and Patrick Dorgu released Aaronson, who left Heaven in his wake on his way to breaking the deadlock. Aaronson’s strike saw Ruben Amorim’s United set a new record, conceding in 15 consecutive away Premier League games for the first time in the club’s history. Luckily for United, they didn’t stay behind for too long. Matheus Cunha latched onto a sublime through ball from Joshua Zirkzee and produced a cool finish, making it 1-1. Cunha’s goal rescued a point for United, who are in sixth place in the Premier League table, level on points with Chelsea in fifth and three points adrift of fourth-placed Liverpool. Speaking on Premier League Productions after the final whistle, Owen was not impressed with Heaven’s recovery for Aaronson’s goal. Heaven slammed Owen said [as quoted by the Metro], “He (Aaronson) takes Heaven out of the game by cutting across him it’s textbook attacking play that is.” “Direct to goal but taking the defender out by cutting across him. And then that angle, that distance out, it’s always a lovely combination.” The ex-England international continued, “You always get a big gap from that type of angle, and he slots it home well.” “I just wonder with Heaven, he reacted quite slowly and didn’t get into his stride quick enough. He’s miles ahead of his man.” “He plays the ball and then drops into a really safe position as well. I just think those first three or four yards, I think he’s a bit lackadaisical.” United are next in action on Wednesday when they go away to Burnley. Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!