Rio Ferdinand explains why he can 'live with' Manchester United draw against Bournemouth despite being furious with their defending

Legendary Manchester United centre-back Rio Ferdinand said that the attacking display from his former side enthused him in their 4-4 Premier League home draw with AFC Bournemouth on Monday (December 15) night.

Ruben Amorim's side twice took the lead and led 2-1 at the break before finding themselves 3-2 down with 13 minutes left. Quickfire goals from Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha put the Red Devils back in front once again only for Eli Junior Kroupi pegging them back with an 84th-minute equaliser.

Despite being unhappy with the four goals conceded, Ferdinand sought to dwell on the positives, taking solace in the attacking football from Amorim's side, who eventually ended the night with a share of the spoils.

"Going for a lay down after that…Mixed emotions," Ferdinand tweeted. "Defender hat on - I would have been screaming! However we’ve been asking for more attacking football this season, team to show fight, flexibility in formation from the manager. We got it all tonight, just not the 3 points. "@GNev2 summed it up after 75 minutes. “Man Utd are losing 3-2, but it's a performance I can live with.”

The Red Devils had nine of their 24 shots on target and dominated possession (56%). Following the Bournemouth stalemate - a fourth straight unbeaten league outing - Amorim's side are sixth in the standings after 16 games, ahead of holders Liverpool (26) on goal difference.

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"Today was inspiring" - Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim after Bournemouth draw

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim lauded his side's attacking performance in the 4-4 Premier League draw with Bournemouth at Old Trafford on Monday.

Although he admitted 'frustration' after failing to get the win despite leading thrice, the Portuguese boss said that his side tried to go for the win but came up just short against an inspired opposition.

"If you understand a little bit," Amorim said (as per the BBC). "If you follow the club like I follow the Premier League for so long, you (know you) have not just the duty to try to win the games. The way you try to win the games is so important for the fans. "Of course, they are desperate to win, but also, I feel that they are desperate to be inspired when they come to Old Trafford. Today was inspiring, I think, also because of Bournemouth. But in the end, that's the feeling of frustration of not winning the game."

Manchester United next travel to third-placed Aston Villa - who have won their last six games - in the league on Sunday (December 21).

Edited by Bhargav