Gary Neville identifies 'big issue' at Man Utd as Erik ten Hag laments squad's 'desire'

Gary Neville has identified Manchester United's 'big issue' after their 2-0 defeat to Newcastle on the weekend.

The Red Devils were second best in every department at St James' Park, allowing Newcastle to leapfrog them into third place.

Erik ten Hag lamented his side's 'desire' after the full-time whistle, agreeing with Luke Shaw's damning assessment of the team's 'passion and hunger'.

Indeed, it seemed a particularly lack-lustre performance bearing in mind Champions League football was on the line.

However, Neville has identified another issue within the side, identifying their lack of quality up front.

Neville identifies 'big issue' at Man Utd

January addition Wout Weghorst has been heavily criticised since arriving at Old Trafford on loan from Burnley.

The Netherlands international has only managed to score twice in 18 appearances. While United haven't scored in their last three Premier League encounters, sparking concern among supporters.

Meanwhile, former United defender Neville praised his effort, but reckons Weghorst's 'lack of quality' is a 'big issue'.

He told Sky Sports (via Metro): "He does play his part. It’s a big issue. He doesn’t deserve to be criticised. I think he is doing his very best.

"He works as hard as he possibly can, but he just lacks the quality that a player in that position should have at Manchester United.”

“He’s filling in obviously with Martial being injured. [Cristiano] Ronaldo’s left. [Edinson] Cavani left at the start of the season.

"Manchester United don’t have a centre-forward, really. In order to play football really well, you have to have a good centre-forward. It’s a rule!"

Ten Hag is thought to be in the market for an elite number nine this summer, as the Dutchman seeks a long-term replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo.

While Tottenham striker Harry Kane and Napoli's Victor Osimhen have both been rumoured with a move to Old Trafford this summer.

Topics: Erik Ten Hag, Wout Weghorst, Gary Neville, Manchester United, Football, Premier League

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno