Manchester United's new 'massive problem' exposed as Jamie Carragher slams Erik ten Hag

Jamie Carragher has launched a scathing criticism of Manchester United as he pinpointed a number of problems from Erik ten Hag's side.

United failed to cut the gap in the race for European qualification on Saturday after their 2-1 defeat to Fulham. Despite their pressure and chances, Marco Silva's side took the lead through Calvin Bassey before Alex Iwobi won it in the 97th minute after Harry Maguire's equaliser.

They now sit four points off Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League, however in their last five matches, defensively Ten Hag's side have been besieged. In each of their last five top-flight outings, they have conceded in excess of 15 shots - with West Ham United, West Ham United and Luton Town exceeding 20.

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Despite the threat on Andre Onana's goal, United have came out on top in each of those games prior to Saturday's defeat. Carragher highlighted several areas during their Monday Night Football analysis, raising problem areas for the Dutch tactician.

"I want to highlight (Kobbie) Mainoo, who has been fantastic since he came in, but the problem I have - it's not a criticism of him - what are his instructions before the game?" He began. "This is straight from kick-off, he is not sure whether he should close down the holding midfield player or looking at the number 10, he's caught, straight from kick-off - you should know your jobs straight from kick-off and that's down to the coaching staff.

"Twenty seconds into the game against Fulham, it's been the problem for Manchester United all season, there's space between the back four and the midfield.