West Ham dent United’s Champions League hopes

Manchester United’s chances of a top four finish in the Premier League were dented following their loss to West Ham United on Tuesday evening. United, who are in fifth place, lost 3-2 despite enjoying a 2-1 lead till late into the game.

Winston Reid celebrates after scoring West Ham's winner against Manchester United on Tuesday. Reuters/John Sibley

Manchester United travelled to London seeking a win that would have propelled them ahead of fourth placed Manchester City thereby improving their chances of qualifying for next season’s Champions League.

However, it was the hosts who took the lead in the 10th minute as Diafra Sakho scored with a left footed shot which found the bottom left corner.

Manchester United came back strongly in the second half thanks to Anthony Martial who scored twice in the space of 20 minutes to give United a 2-1 lead. The Frenchman scored his first in the 51st minute and followed it up with his second in the 72nd minute.

Just when it seemed United had taken firm control of the match, more drama unfolded as West Ham levelled the score in the 77th minute through a header by Michail Antonio.

The hosts sealed the match two minutes later as Winston Reid successfully headed a cross by Dmitri Payet to give West Ham a memorable win.

In order to finish fourth, United, who trail City by two points, must not only win their final match against Bournemouth on Sunday but also hope Manchester City loses its encounter against Swansea City.

United team bus attacked

Two people were injured when a Manchester United team bus was attacked with cans and bottles just before the start of their game against West Ham United in London.

West Ham United said that any fans found to have taken part in the attack would be banned for life.