Sunderland skipper John O'Shea has given his verdict on his former club Manchester United's struggles this season.
Following the Black Cats' 2-1 win over United on Saturday, O'Shea claimed that the Red Devils are struggling to cope up with the increasing quality in England's top flight despite the fact they have spent enormous amounts of money on signings since Louis van Gaal's arrival as manager in the summer of 2014.
"Because of the season they're having and the amount of injuries they've got, it's difficult for them," said the Irishman.
"They don't have as many players as they used to and while they're still a good team, United are not challenging where they want to be in the table."
"That is the given beforehand when you look at the squad and the budgets and what is spent to get there," he said.
"Now it's about adjusting. There have been big injuries, they have lost some very important players and in the Premier League, the quality is increasing.
"You are having to blood two young lads at full-back - they did well but it's tough. I was a young lad coming into a team that was winning the league so it was that bit easier, but if you're not finishing first or second, there is more pressure."
Source: tribalfootball.com