"You can't do that" – Gary Neville Slams Man Utd Star After Everton Defeat
United fail to capitalize on numerical advantage as Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s strike seals a 1-0 shock at Old Trafford, leaving fans and legends frustrated.
Manchester United suffered a frustrating 1-0 defeat at Old Trafford on Monday night, and club legend Gary Neville did not hold back in his criticism of Luke Shaw’s performance. The Red Devils looked poised to take advantage when Everton were reduced to 10 men just 13 minutes into the game, yet United failed to capitalize, leaving fans disappointed.
Everton Take Advantage of a Numerical Edge
The drama began early when Idrissa Gueye was shown a straight red card for a bizarre incident with teammate Michael Keane. With the Toffees down a player, it seemed the perfect opportunity for United to assert dominance. Instead, Everton went ahead in the 29th minute thanks to a stunning curling strike by Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, leaving the home crowd stunned.
Despite having an extra man for much of the game, United looked disjointed and lacked urgency in attack. Ruben Amorim’s tactical changes in the second half saw the introduction of Mason Mount, Diogo Dalot, and Kobbie Mainoo, but the Reds could not break through David Moyes’ disciplined side. Everton held firm to secure a vital away win, leapfrogging Liverpool to 11th place in the Premier League, while United remained 10th.
Everton have beaten Manchester United at Old Trafford for the first time since December 2013 (also 1-0).
And they did it with just 10 men. pic.twitter.com/qZluAo0Q9A
— Squawka (@Squawka) November 24, 2025
Neville Calls Out Luke Shaw
On commentary during the match, Gary Neville expressed his frustration with United’s left-back. “I’m not saying it’s easy playing against ten men, but you have to show urgency. You have to push forward every time,” Neville said. “You’ve still got Yoro, Shaw, and De Ligt largely playing behind the ball. Shaw is starting to move forward a little, but he’s ambling. He’s been bugging me for the last 20 minutes. You can’t do that. You should be running forward every single time. Honestly, what he’s doing there, you’re not conning anybody.”
Neville did offer some sympathy for newcomer Leny Yoro, noting that the young defender is still adjusting to the pace and pressure of top-flight football. But his point was clear: Shaw’s lack of urgency was a key factor in United’s inability to turn their numerical advantage into goals.
Everton’s Tactical Brilliance
While United struggled, Everton’s front three impressed with their ability to maintain possession, win free-kicks, and relieve pressure. Neville praised their defensive organisation and work rate, saying: “Everton’s front three have done a good job in holding the ball up and winning free-kicks but also with their defensive work.”
The Toffees’ resilience demonstrated how a well-drilled team can frustrate a bigger opponent, even when reduced to ten men, highlighting the tactical acumen of David Moyes.
What This Means for United
For Manchester United, the loss raises questions about motivation, focus, and the ability to perform under pressure. Fans will be particularly concerned about the lack of cohesion in the final third and the failure of key players like Luke Shaw and Bruno Fernandes to make an impact.
The defeat ends United’s five-match unbeaten streak and leaves them mid-table with inconsistencies continuing to plague the squad. The Reds will need to regroup quickly as they travel to Selhurst Park to face Crystal Palace in their next Premier League fixture.
Moving Forward
Ruben Amorim will have to find ways to instil urgency and creativity into his team, particularly when facing opponents who retreat and defend. Players like Shaw and Yoro must adapt to the physical and mental demands of high-pressure matches, while the midfield needs to step up in games where the team is favoured to dominate.
As Neville highlighted, the performance against Everton was a missed opportunity for United to build momentum. With a tough Premier League schedule ahead, how the team responds will be crucial to their ambitions this season.
