United View: United running out of time to save their season.

After the season-high win against Liverpool before the International break, there was a buzz around Old Trafford.

Despite a campaign of disappointment, this victory was seen by some as the chance to turn around an underwhelming season. Then came a trip to Brentford and another head-in-hands performance.

United looked comfortable in the opening 15 minutes, but the game soon shifted in Brentford’s favour, with the Reds hanging on in numerous points in the game. Ivan Toney had the best chance of the first half when he was sent through on goal, although his effort deflected off the post.

Brentford then hit the woodwork a further three times in the match, mustering 31 shots and racking up an xG (expected goals) of 3.29 compared to United’s 0.59. Thomas Frank’s side also amassed the third most touches in an opposition box in Premier League history (85).

For all their dominance, it was United who took the lead, Mason Mount scoring his first goal for the club in the 96th minute. Only for Kristoffer Ajer to equalise for the Bees in the 99th minute.

United went from holding on to an undeserved point to stealing all three and finally ruing the two they dropped. It feels like only Manchester United in their current incarnation is capable of producing such a chaotic end to a game of football.

Erik ten Hag was disappointed not to get the win but admitted his side did not play well and did not deserve to win. He also added that he is not concerned by the number of shots his side is facing.

“I think our results have been consistent from January on, and yeah we concede shots, but we don’t concede many goals and we’re creating many chances with Rasmus Hojlund.”

This result undoubtedly wasn’t as bad as last season’s 4-0 defeat but given Brentford’s league status in jeopardy and their form, this result was more fuel to the fire for Manchester United. Another uncontrolled display that longs for cohesive organisation.

There are only nine games left in the league, with United 11 points behind Aston Villa in 4th. Both they and Spurs won at the weekend, as they start to peel away from the Reds, and both look to secure their place in next season’s Champions League.

There is still a chance for United to pull this deficit back but in all honesty, it looks like it’s a matter of time before either Unai Emery or Ange Postecoglou claims fourth spot. United have been far too inconsistent and unless there is an almighty shift in performances, these concerning traits will likely continue.

Saturday was a must-win for United, given their next two fixtures against Chelsea and Liverpool. Chelsea have been even more inconsistent than United and it’s impossible to call how this game will go. The Reds took all three points back in December, but the Blues are capable of a good performance, as shown in both draws against Manchester City.

The Liverpool game will see Jurgen Klopp’s side out for revenge after the defeat in the FA Cup and with the title race on a knife edge, they can ill afford to come away from Old Trafford with anything other than three points.

Even though there is added pressure on both games if United can turn each into a frantic basketball-like contest it could play into their hands. However, after Liverpool allowed United to do this in the FA Cup, don’t be surprised if they take a more pragmatic approach.

Things have only got more difficult with Lisandro Martinez and Victor Lindelof, both picking up muscular injuries and will be out for at least a month, adding to a seemingly never-ending injury list.