David Moyes has admitted to have concerns about Manchester United’s current form after a surprise 2-1 defeat to West Bromwich Albion let the champions record their worst start of the season since 1989.
The last seven days haven’t been good for the Scotsman, after an embarrassing loss to their city rivals last weekend was followed by a second loss to increase the pressure on Moyes’ position.
United have only gained seven points out of six Premier League games and a currently 12th in the table, matching a feeble haul that prompted calls for Sir Alex Ferguson to be sacked 24 years ago.
“It was a disappointing result, and performance,” said Moyes, after a superb solo goal by Morgan Amalfitano and a second for SaidoBerahino secured West Brom’s first victory at Old Trafford for 35 years.
“We never really got going. Whenever we did make something, we didn’t finish it. I’m concerned, but only because we didn’t play well.
“There are a lot of games to come, and I’ll do everything I can to put it right. You’re going to have bad results — it’s how you deal with them.”
The manager acknowledged his concerns about his team’s lack of intensity in the game, as his players lacked the drive and intensity to took them to a record 20th title just four months ago.
Asked if his team lacked a spark he replied: “There was. We missed something to take hold of the game and make a difference. I thought at times we controlled the game but we couldn’t provide the telling finish. There is no question that West Brom deserved the victory — they were always a threat on the break.”
Another cause for concern is that the team haven’t scored a goal in open play in 450 minutes. Though Wayne Rooney has scored back-to-back free-kicks, the team’s lack of potency is gradually becoming a problem for Moyes. “There are plenty of fine forward players at this club but we haven’t been able to open up play as much as we would like,” he said.
Analysts also questioned his tactical approach when he replaced Shinji Kagawa with Beligian youngster Adnan Januzaj which proved ineffective.
“There is a lot of competition for places,” Moyes argued.