Manchester United in relegation zone after nine games for first time since 1986

Manchester United, one of England's biggest football clubs, have dropped to 17th in the Premier League, the top tier of English football, after losing at Chelsea in London. They have not been this low after nine or more games since 1989-90, and they have not been in the relegation zone at this stage since November 1986, when Sir Alex Ferguson took over from the sacked Ron Atkinson.

Worst run since 1988-89

The team, currently led by Michael Carrick, has gone nine games in all competitions without a win, their worst run since 1988-89. Their only Premier League victory this season came in August, at home to Ipswich, after coming from behind.

Last season, under Ruben Amorim, United were 16th after 37 games but were 14 points clear of third-bottom Leicester. Tottenham came closer to danger, trailing West Ham by two points with four games left.

What comes next

United host Aston Villa on 8 November, followed by seven more fixtures including trips to Liverpool, Newcastle and Arsenal. On Tuesday they face Roma in the Champions League. Carrick's future has not been addressed, although he was expected to remain in charge for that match before the Chelsea defeat.

Defender Lisandro Martinez will miss the Villa game through suspension after his red card at Chelsea, which former World Cup final referee Darren Cann called inexplicable on BBC Sport. Martinez's contract expires in the summer.

Financial consequences

Finance blogger Paul Quinn, known as The Esk, estimated that Tottenham's revenue loss from relegation would be £197m-£235m. As one of the league's biggest recipients of TV income, United would not be covered by parachute payments given to relegated clubs. The club also carries £1.15bn of debt and is preparing a fan consultation on plans for a new stadium.