Good evening and welcome to Telegraph Sport’s live coverage of Manchester United’s Champions League clash with Galatasaray.
It may well be too soon to start talking about must-wins for Erik ten Hag but his side’s dismal run of form has only worsened the storm clouds hanging over Old Trafford of late.
One win in six has reinforced the pervading feeling of doom around the club and while the manager may continue to present a calm demeanour outwardly, there can be no doubt he must be feeling the pinch.
Saturday’s 1-0 loss at home to Crystal Palace felt like the lowest point of Ten Hag’s tenure so far as his side produced an abysmal performance, devoid of any imagination or indeed confidence.
The introduction of Harry Maguire as a striker in the closing minutes as well as that of the lesser-spotted Donny van de Beek, suggested the manager himself had run out of ideas.
Long story short, the ship must be turned around in the near future, with tonight’s match not just important in the bigger picture but also in terms of Champions League qualification.
Within the carnage of United’s recent run of form it is easy to forget that they already face a precarious situation in Europe.
The 4-3 loss to Bayern Munich was perhaps not the worst of results in isolation but certainly means three points here – against lesser competition, at home – is essential.
Perhaps the potential return of Antony – absent of late due to well-publicised personal issues – can act as a spark for this somewhat bedraggled outfit.
The Brazilian has not featured since the 3-1 loss to Arsenal in early September and now rejoins a side who have not scored in three matches.
The reality at Old Trafford right now is that every game feels like one with consequence and that is something over which only Ten Hag and his players have control.
Team news from 7pm.
