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

3. Change Of Tempo

When you think of Manchester United and their style of play, the first thing that pops into your head is counterattacking football. That is high octane, swashbuckling wingplay done at pace. Recent instances in which the current crop of players has moved the ball quickly have been few and far between though. Perhaps Moyes is making a departure from what predecessor Ferguson preached in this regard. There is merit in patient approach play as there are individuals easily good enough at Old Trafford to make that killer pass. On the other hand, when it is not working it can be very frustrating to watch. For long spells in the Swansea and Sunderland games United had the ball, but did nothing to hurt the opposition. There are two sides to every story, however. Has this been down to good organisation by the other teams or a lack of urgency from the Red Devils? Experience tells us it is probably a combination of both. There is a valid argument in that high tempo football is very difficult to maintain at a time when matches are played every three days, yet it is customary to at least attempt it in cup competitions. Moyes may be afraid to lose matches, but what manager isn't?