Manchester United avoided a third consecutive defeat after Matheus Cunha scored a late equaliser to secure a 1-1 draw against Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday.

The result leaves manager Michael Carrick facing increased scrutiny following a difficult run of results. United have now collected five points from their opening five Premier League matches, with just one league victory during that period.

Fulham took the lead in the second half through an unfortunate own goal from Lisandro Martinez. The defender turned the ball into his own net after goalkeeper Senne Lammens had saved Calvin Bassey’s effort.

United pushed for an equaliser and eventually got their reward in the 89th minute. Cunha’s effort from distance took a deflection off David Affengruber before finding the back of the net and rescuing a point for the visitors.

The draw came after United had suffered defeats against Manchester City in the Premier League and Brighton in the League Cup. Their midweek cup exit was particularly disappointing, as they surrendered a 2-0 lead before losing 3-2 at Old Trafford.

United had opportunities to take control of the match, with Bruno Fernandes hitting the post and goalkeeper Bernd Leno making important saves to deny the visitors.

Fulham also threatened throughout the contest, forcing several saves from Lammens as United struggled to establish control for long periods.

The pressure on Carrick had already increased before the Fulham fixture, although the manager had dismissed speculation about his future and said his focus remained on improving the team's performances.

United will now have the international break to regroup before returning to Premier League action against Tottenham on October 10.