Raphael Varane's Paul Pogba differences at Man Utd could prove pivotal in top four race

Ralf Rangnick has been left scrambling for solutions after Manchester United threw away another lead to drop more vital points in the race for the top four.

The Red Devils drew 1-1 with Southampton on Saturday as Che Adams struck just after half-time to cancel out Jadon Sancho's opener.

The result marked the third time in nine days United squandered a 1-0 lead, adding to their stalemates with Burnley in the Premier League and Middlesbrough in the FA Cup.

It also leaves them fifth in the table, one point behind West Ham but only narrowly ahead of Arsenal, Wolves and Tottenham, all of whom have games in hand.

Speaking in his press conference on Monday, Rangnick declared Champions League qualification is the best his side can hope for this season.

But the interim manager knows United will not get far in their pursuit of a top-four finish if they continue to give up winning positions.

Rangnick will turn to the club's sports psychologist, Sascha Lense, in a bid to improve the squad's mental fortitude with 14 league games remaining in their run-in.

But he must also identify the players who can step up as leaders to inspire United out of their rut and into the top four.

Defender Harry Maguire appears devoid of confidence after a hugely challenging season which has frequently seen has captaincy called into question.

The issues at the back are shared in attack, with the Red Devils short of fluency and cutting edge despite boasting a wealth of talent including the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes.

Throughout the season, United have lacked a player capable of grabbing the game by the scruff of the neck and spurring their teammates on.

Going forward, things have been predictable and mundane all too often,