The Manchester United supporter famous for his hair-growing pledge has been assaulted by a fellow fan in a shocking incident captured on video. Frank Ilett, dubbed the United Strand, has become an internet sensation with his follicular challenge.
The Red Devils devotee has vowed not to trim his locks until Ruben Amorim's squad achieves five consecutive competitive victories - resulting in his increasingly wild mane. He was present at United's 2-1 Premier League triumph over Chelsea at Old Trafford on Saturday.
Having journeyed from his Spanish residence for the fixture, Frank was filmed being targeted in the stadium's concourse by someone questioning his allegiance to United.
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Footage shared on social media depicted Ilett engaging with supporters in good spirits and grinning at an elderly, hairless fan.
However, the fellow supporter then began grabbing his hair, initially appearing playful, but subsequently seeming unwilling to release his grip.
It quickly became obvious that the fan was yanking his hair and can be observed in the clip trying to force Ilett to the floor, reports the Daily Star.
Other supporters recognised the situation and dragged Ilett to safety, who appeared shocked by the experience, whilst the irate fan was restrained and made crude gestures in his direction.
The incensed supporter had apparently targeted Ilett's viral stunt and insisted he wasn't a genuine United fan.
He was heard declaring: "F*** off, f*** off, I'll do what I f***ing want. Listen, he's not a United f***ing fan, so f*** off, f*** off."
Despite the altercation, Ilett didn't let the incident dampen his spirits as he shared a snap of himself celebrating United's crucial victory from the stands on social media.
He penned: "What a place. Wet hair, but still a smile on my face! A big win today! What a crazy game it was in the end! 1 down, 4 to go. COME ON UNITED!"
Ilett embarked on the challenge nearly a year ago on 5 October 2024, and regularly shares updates about his eccentric hairstyle that has drawn comparisons to a King's Guard hat, Marge Simpson, and a beehive.
When he initiated the challenge, Ilett admitted that his original goal of securing three consecutive wins seemed too straightforward, yet United have struggled to achieve even back-to-back victories during this period.
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