Erik ten Hag pinpoints the ‘main issue’ at Man Utd after dreadful Nottingham Forest defeat showcases the club’s ‘problems’

After their defeat to Forest, Ten Hag was adamant that the lack of availability of some of his key players has been hampering United's season. The United boss was without both strikers, Rasmus Hojlund and Anthony Martial, through illness and has had Lisandro Martinez, Casemiro and Mason Mount out for lengthy periods this season. Whilst the United injury list is extensive, critics will argue the Dutchman had enough talent in his squad to not have suffered nine defeats in the Premier League.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Ten Hag said: "The injuries [are the main issue]. Also some issues but mainly the injuries hold us back in the process. In January we have a lot of players returning so then our levels can be higher. We had nine different partnerships in the back. It doesn't matter as well, the fans don't want to hear this, they want to see us winning and that is what we have to serve them."

The United boss continued to bemoan his lack of striking options. Martial and Hojlund may have missed out through illness today, but their toils this season have meant Ten Hag has been on the hunt for a new striker for some time. He called on the new INEOS investment group, of which sporting director David Brailsford was at the City Ground, to support him. Ten Hag said: "Definitely [Brailsford] will see we have our problems. You want to build on the last result but we have to change our striker."

Ten Hag's side will be bolstered by a number of key players returning from injury in January. However, with pressure mounting on the Dutchman, there's always a chance he won't be around long enough to see them come back. Amad Diallo's eagerly anticipated return offers a glimmer of hope in the darkness, but it appears the die has been cast this season for United.

With time running out for Ten Hag to improve United's fortunes, his side will see next week's FA Cup clash with Wigan as a must-win. The tournament is the last chance of silverware for Ten Hag and elimination may spell trouble for the Dutchman.