According to The Telegraph, Ilett vowed in October 2024 not to cut his hair until United win five consecutive matches. His growing afro now reportedly 10 inches long has since become a viral symbol of the club’s struggles, with more than 120,000 viewers watching live on Kick as he hoped Tuesday’s game would spark the run. He even promised a buzzcut if United triumphed.

The draw dashed those hopes, keeping his challenge alive. According to The Telegraph, the stunt has earned Ilett 1.4 million Instagram followers and sponsorship deals, while head coach Michael Carrick has acknowledged being aware of it. Ilett has also faced criticism, including an incident at Old Trafford where a supporter grabbed his hair and was later banned. With United out of cup competitions and only 12 league games left, the earliest chance of a five-match winning streak is now March meaning Ilett’s wait goes on.