Robbie Savage Slams 'Pathetic' Manchester United Defence After Saints Clash

Former Leicester City and Derby County midfielder Robbie Savage has labelled Manchester United's defence "pathetic," a reaction brought on by the Red Devils' 1-0 defeat to Southampton.

The BBC pundit blasted players who continue to make simple mistakes for Louis van Gaal's side. His brutal assessment was heard on BBC Radio 5 Live, transcribed by 101 Great Goals:

"

United’s back three are pathetic. Too many gaps between them. They can’t defend, they can’t defend! They keep making errors. (Phil) Jones has been here long enough to grab that centre half position by the scruff of the neck, so has (Chris) Smalling. So why haven’t they?

"

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Savage also believes quick additions are needed if United are to progress under Van Gaal. "Unless United change the situation by buying quality defenders, they aren't gonna challenge for Premier League titles or the Champions League," said Savage.

Football writer Andy Brassell recently analysed potential January signings who could improve United's quality in a chat with B/R UK's Ryan Bailey:

United actually have the fourth best defensive record in the division this season. Only the teams above them—Chelsea, Manchester City and Saints—have conceded less, but it's difficult to suggest the side's back line has ever truly impressed.

Chris Smalling was dragged out of position for Dusan Tadic's winning goal at Old Trafford on Sunday. He played a number of dangerous passes across his own box and often failed to get the ball under control, humorously noted by Paddy Power:

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Phil Jones has always been expected to develop into a United leader, but his potential continues to wane. He often steams into challenges with little thought for his positioning and how it leaves the team exposed. Funnily enough, it was Daley Blind who appeared most assured of the side's centre-backs against Ronald Koeman's side, despite only just returning from injury.

Savage is correct in his assessment that United's back three need to improve if success is to arrive.

Champions League qualification is a possibility this campaign, but United haven't won any of their last three matches and are only one point clear of Arsenal in fourth. Continued mistakes will see this gap overturned in an instant.