5 Issues Manchester United Need to Work on During November International Break
Manchester United's season has been a distinctly hit-and-miss affair so far. Those looking for positives have plenty to draw on, but those looking for a reason to criticise Old Trafford's new regime have no shortage of ammunition, either.
With another international break on the way, we take a look at five things Louis van Gaal and his staff can work on to improve the Red Devils' fortunes as the season progresses.
Fitness
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Van Gaal has had to deal with serious injury issues in almost every area of his squad. David De Gea has thankfully stayed healthy but everywhere else on the pitch there have been problems.
The last international break was perceived as a time in which United could re-introduce some injured players but new injuries cropped up. This time around, Van Gaal will be hoping Radamel Falcao, Phil Jones, Rafael da Silva, Jonny Evans and the rest of the players on United's injury list can return to fitness.
It is vital for United's season that the Dutchman has more of his squad available for selection.
Defensive Solidity
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United's defence has actually held up remarkably well under the strain of having so many injuries to contend with. Clean sheets have been hard to come by, but the Red Devils have only conceded more than one goal once since the infamous 5-3 defeat to Leicester City.
However, there is certainly room for improvement. United were lucky not to be punished for a defensive error against Crystal Palace, when ex-Red Fraizer Campbell fluffed his lines.
De Gea's excellent form has been partially responsible for minimising the damage done by United's constant need to chop and change their back four.
The international break is a good time for Van Gaal to work on a plan to improve stability at the back.
Attacking Fluency
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United's abundance of attacking riches has not been showing its best form. The seven goals scored in two games, versus Queens Park Rangers and Leicester, seem a distant memory. More recently, the Reds were unable to breach a vulnerable Manchester City back line, then laboured to a solitary goal against Palace.
Numerous changes in personnel and systems have not helped and nor have the ebbs and flows in form of Angel Di Maria, Robin van Persie, Wayne Rooney and Juan Mata.
Van Gaal needs to consider this when deciding how best to handle the games which follow the break.
Robin Van Persie
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Of all the players whose form is a matter of concern to United fans, Van Persie's apparent inability to bring significant influence to bear on the past couple of games may be the most pressing.
The Dutchman has been nowhere near his form of two seasons ago, which was electrifying when he helped guide United to the league title.
His goal against Chelsea in October was a wonderful moment, but it cannot paper over the cracks of a poor season so far for Van Persie. Van Gaal has some big decisions to make about how to handle his compatriot in the months ahead.
Preparations for January
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Van Gaal has claimed not to be looking to strengthen United's squad in January, per Jamie Jackson of The Guardian.
However, Ed Malyon of the Mirror claims United are "monitoring developments" over Gerard Pique. Ben Jefferson of the Express claims United also have an interest in Roberto Firmino. Plenty more rumours will no doubt emerge between now and the end of January, in spite of Van Gaal's apparent claims.
The break affords Van Gaal the chance to consider his options for the window.
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