Marcel Sabitzer’s positional issue may be what lands him permanent Manchester United move

A tough week on the road for Manchester United and one in which the deficiencies of their squad was laid bare. An over-reliance on Marcus Rashford's goals, a lack of impact in attacking roles off the bench and the fatigue that seems inevitable in what will be a 62-game season culminated in consecutive 1-0 away defeats.

This campaign can still very easily be a major success - the Reds are in command of their own top-four destiny and have an FA Cup final to look forward to - but this recent bump has only highlighted the importance of investment in the entire squad, rather than just the starting line-up.

Erik ten Hag wants to improve his starting XI, ideally with a world-class goalscorer and a ball-playing midfielder - interest in Harry Kane and Frenkie de Jong give an idea of what profile the Dutchman demands. Improvement in central defence, at right-back and potentially in goal is also being explored.

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But as important as those direct improvements is building depth, that is to not necessarily break the bank for a player but to add a smattering of functional options and compliment major arrivals. In those roles, versatility is a treasured strength and United may already have an ideal option within their ranks.

When Ten Hag learned of the seriousness of Christian Eriksen's ankle injury in January, the Reds boss acted swiftly to bring in cover. A half-season loan deal for Marcel Sabitzer was uncomplicated and benefitted all parties, with the player wanting more minutes and United needing an extra body.

However a red card for Casemiro in Sabitzer's first game against Crystal Palace saw the 29-year-old come off the bench and into a deeper role,