Man Utd: 5 Things We've Learned From Their New Year Slump

5. A Stretched Squad

Manchester United are not alone in having several first-team regulars out injured, but that does not change the fact they are unavailable. Given the congested nature of the football calendar in late December and early January, it would be safe to say ending up on the treatment table is an occupational hazard for players. Premier League leaders Arsenal, for example, are similarly struggling to cope with casualties. Arsene Wenger's attacking options have been severely limited by injuries to Nicklas Bendtner, Olivier Giroud and Theo Walcott. Moyes can sympathize as Wayne Rooney has struggled with a groin problem and Robin van Persie has missed the entire festive period. It's not just a case of depleted resources up front for the Red Devils, however. Out wide they are without Nani and Ashley Young, leaving the club reliant on talented teenager Adnan Januzaj. This highly-rated player has to effectively learn on the job. Defensive options are also thin for Moyes. Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans have limped off in each of the last two outings respectively. Phil Jones, who has continued to put in encouraging performances wherever he's played this season, has also been out with a knee problem. There is only one way to address this, but that is a theme which we shall return to later.