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

2. No More Fear Factor

Now they have lost three matches on the bounce, that aura of invincibility that has surrounded Manchester United for so long is fading. The Red Devils mask has certainly slipped under Moyes with the likes of West Bromwich Albion, Newcastle United and Everton all winning at Old Trafford in the latter stages of 2013. A once formidable record on their own turf now looks quite ordinary. United's next two home fixtures come against Swansea and Sunderland either side of the daunting task of travelling to Chelsea €“ who have never lost a Premier League game at Stamford Bridge under Jose Mourinho. Teams no longer fear the Red Devils and yet they are the reigning Premier League champions. Gus Poyet's Black Cats certainly showed Moyes little respect in the League Cup semi-final first leg win. Michael Laudrup meanwhile saw his Swans side out-pass their hosts for long periods in their FA Cup victory. Rather than looking to harden the resolve at United to rebuild that irrepressible image, manager Moyes has bemoaned refereeing decisions. He would be better advised to get the players fired up, so they will put in performances that lay down markers they mean business rather than the tepid turnouts of recent games.