Manchester United lost 2-0 at West Ham on Sunday to leave Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side winless in seven Premier League matches on the road stretching back into last season.
To compound United’s problems, Marcus Rashford limped off early in the second half after Andriy Yarmolenko had given the hosts the lead in the 44th minute. Aaron Cresswell completed the victory by curling in a free kick in the 84th.
With Anthony Martial already missing through injury and youngster Mason Greenwood ill, United finished the match without a recognized striker and Jesse Lingard playing in attack.
Rashford’s early departure will raise more questions about United’s summer transfer business, when the club failed to bring in a replacement for Romelu Lukaku.
“We’ve got to scan him tomorrow,” Solskjaer said of Rashford. “He felt his groin, so he’ll probably be out for a little while.”
While West Ham has 11 points in six matches — after three wins from four — United is three points worse off. Solskjaer is tasked with returning United to the four Champions League places.
“It’s a good group to work with,” Solskjaer said. “Sometimes along the road you’re going to hit some bumps as we’ve said. Some highs and lows.
“This group was out there determined and they showed the desire we want to get out. It was a good atmosphere in the dressing room and they have got the focus right.”
Jose Mourinho, who was fired to make way for Solskjaer last December, was withering in his assessment while working as a TV pundit on the game.
“We were bad last season, but I don’t see any improvement this season – even with three new players,” Mourinho said on Sky Sports. “I have to say, players with a positive impact. I like the three and I think they’re bringing good quality to the team.
“But the team, as a team, I don’t like at all. I’m not surprised by the result and I don’t think Ole can take many positives from the game.”
There were many positives for West Ham, which enjoyed a fourth successive clean sheet in all competitions.
“The feel good factor at the club is really high and it makes it a little bit special when you get Manchester United at home and perform like that,” West Ham captain Mark Noble said. “This gives us belief maybe that we can compete with the top teams.”
