Pressure continues to mount on Michael Carrick, whose side have gone eight matches without a victory in all competitions. However, injury problems have also highlighted a lack of depth in key areas of the squad.

United are currently without Marcus Rashford and Luke Shaw, while Benjamin Sesko, Manuel Ugarte and Patrick Dorgu are sidelined with longer-term issues. Although Kobbie Mainoo has recently returned from injury, United’s options remain stretched.

The club’s decision to focus on midfield reinforcements last summer, bringing in Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Carlos Baleba, left the squad short of cover at left-back and in attack. As a result, at least one new signing is now being considered for the winter window if a suitable target becomes available.

A new forward would obviously be welcome at Old Trafford, but without Shaw and Dorgu, the most pressing position at the moment is the left defensive flank.

Whether Carrick is still in charge by January remains uncertain. United’s next three matches against Chelsea, Roma and Aston Villa are expected to play a major role in determining his future.