Manchester United’s biggest Erik ten Hag problem remains unsolved

Four games into the new season and Manchester United are one of the Premier League’s early underachievers.

Two wins and two defeats represent an okay start to the campaign but the points gained against Wolves and Nottingham Forest masked poor periods of performance. The Reds competed well with Tottenham for 45 minutes before succumbing to defeat, while they fell late to Arsenal in a game where the Gunners shaded the key moments.

Erik ten Hag came out swinging after the Emirates defeat, praising his sides showing and lamenting key decisions. But despite his words, the actions of his team still raise questions. Yes, United played well in parts but it’s two away defeats from two, continuing a worrying trend from last season.

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The Reds were often shambolic on their travels last term, particularly against the division's leading lights. The record was a woeful one in dire need of improvement. But, so far against a north London pair who will likely be top six sides, the Reds were once again left empty-handed.

Brighton are next up, another top half side who will pose difficult questions. United and Ten Hag are yet to come up with the answers.

Speaking earlier this season the boss reiterated his belief that personality will prove crucial.

"This is one of the aims we have for this season, that we have to step up in away games to get more points. So, it's often to do with personality," he said ahead of the game with Spurs.

Too often last term United folded after falling behind. They’ve improved on that