Five mysteries that surround Manchester United's season so far

5. Where is the performance from big players in the big matches?

Very few of United’s senior players can can keep their head held high after the recent run of games. Apart form perhaps Wayne Rooney, who’s return to form has been quite remarkable, experienced players like Ferdinand, Vidic, Carrick, Kagawa and Van Persie have let United down.

After making a brilliant start to the season by scoring twice away at Swansea, Van Persie had little impact in the game against Chelsea, and was left as a lone frustrated figure in the 1-0 defeat away at Anfield.

Midfield duo of Carrick and Fellaini was outplayed and outclassed in the Manchester derby. Carrick, in particular, have been lacking authority in the midfield that he so perfectly demonstrated last season.

Defense, too, has shown their own frailties. Ferdinand, now 35, have been especially found guilty in the last couple of matches in allowing the opposition go past him so easily.

The form of these big players is neither helping themselves, nor David Moyes’ first season in charge at Old Trafford.