Manchester United miss Ronaldo as they struggle to a draw against Leicester

Manchester United delivered a lacklustre performance in the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo but Fred rescued a point in a 1-1 draw against Leicester at Old Trafford.

United lacked a cutting edge without Ronaldo, who missed out because of illness, and they fell behind just after the hour mark when Kelechi Iheanacho bent down to head beyond goalkeeper David de Gea.

The hosts levelled within three minutes of going behind as Fred slotted in after Kasper Schmeichel had saved Bruno Fernandes’ low effort but it was Leicester who appeared likeliest to score again.

De Gea magnificently sprang to his right to keep out Wesley Fofana’s header while Leicester rued the video assistant referee as the lively James Maddison’s goal was chalked off for a foul in the build-up.

Substitute Marcus Rashford, who did not start despite Ronaldo being out, had claims for a penalty waved away on an afternoon where Harry Maguire’s every involvement was booed by Leicester fans.

The former Foxes defender was given a frosty reception on England duty earlier in the week – which was branded an “absolute joke” by Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate – but had a quiet time as United remain sixth in the Premier League, three points adrift of fourth-placed Arsenal, who have two games in hand.

United midfielder Fernandes told Sky Sports afterwards: “We all know we need points. Today it was not enough. We created some chances but the last option was not the best. We have to look forward and win our own games.

“Everyone gave everything. I don’t believe there’s anyone who didn’t give everything in the game. Nobody lacked intensity. We have to keep fighting. We know our chances. As I said before, we have to keep looking at our own games.”

The unavailability of Ronaldo