Ralf Rangnick could be set to discover the missing piece for his new Manchester United formation

Results may not reflect it, but the switch to a 4-3-3 formation has been a positive one for Manchester United.

There remain glaring problems, of course there does, the biggest of which being that United have now gone three games without a victory and even finishing in the top four is becoming tougher and tougher but there are some slight signs of improvement.

For the opening 45 minutes of United's last three games, they have played pretty well. They were up against a calibre of opposition where that should be the norm but against Middlesbrough and Burnley they absolutely dominated. Playing high-tempo, exciting football and created countless chances.

In both of those matches, Ralf Rangnick's side should have had the game won by the break but failed to take their opportunities and allowed their opponents back into the match. The side's continued frailty when met with any setback then ensured that wins were not forthcoming. But, those first-half displays were certainly promising.

The biggest beneficiary of the switch has been Jadon Sancho. Back into a formation, he's more accustomed to from his time at Borussia Dortmund, the winger has finally started to come to life over the last fortnight and is beginning to show why United spent so many years courting his signature.

Paul Pogba has also slotted back into the side seamlessly following his return from injury and has put in some decent displays as he looks to end his time at United on a high.

One of the major problems though, as is well-documented, remains in defensive midfield. Scott McTominay has done an admirable job in the role but it's clear he wants to burst forward from the shackles placed on him, with the discipline needed for the role not quite there, and he has