Gary Neville has told Erik ten Hag what to correct for Manchester United to become title contenders next season

Manchester United’s loss to Newcastle comes a bitter blow after a sour performance during an off-colour afternoon.

Casemiro’s absence was felt in the centre of the park as the home side’s midfield bypassed the disjointed block of Scott McTominay and Marcel Sabitzer with relative ease. Erik ten Hag questioned the fight his team showed during the 90 minutes after full-time.

United have now not scored a league goal since February 19, albeit have had several fixtures postponed amid FA Cup and Europa League ties. But it means their last goal came four top-flight fixtures ago while their most recent Premier League away win came on February 12 in a 2-0 victory over Leeds.

READ MORE: What Erik ten Hag told United dressing room after Newcastle defeat

It’s a disappointing set of statistics but perspective is needed. United are still in the latter stages of two cup competitions having already lifted the Carabao Cup at Wembley. So they are still on for a treble and their destiny regarding Champions League qualification is still in their own hands.

A top four finish was this season’s objective and even if United don’t clasp hands on another piece of silverware, achieving that and the League Cup would count as a successful campaign. Next term’s mission may be slightly different as a result, though.

The real north star next year may well be a title chase. United currently sit 22 points behind leaders Arsenal albeit have played two matches fewer.

But even if United win both of their games in hand, they would still be some 16 points behind the Gunners which shows the gap that needs to be bridged next season. Since their opening day defeat to Brighton, United have not lost in the Premier League at Old Trafford.

However, Gary