Liverpool legend: This is who is to blame for Man United’s poor form

Graeme Souness believes that Manchester United’s players – and not Jose Mourinho – are to blame for the Red Devils’ struggles this season.

United have found themselves under increasing pressure in recent weeks following their stuttering start to the new season in the Premier League under Mourinho.

The Red Devils were held to another frustrating 1-1 draw by West Ham United at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon to leave Mourinho’s men 11 points behind Premier League leaders Chelsea after 13 games of the season.

Mourinho was brought in to steer Manchester United back into the top four and perhaps guide his team to a title challenge.

However, it now appears that the Portuguese coach has an uphill battle on his hands to achieve either of those targets.

But former Liverpool star Souness feels that United’s players are much more to blame than their manager for their poor start to the new season.

Speaking on Sky Sports News HQ on Monday morning, Souness said: “I don’t believe that he knows what his strongest 11 is – and that’s not his fault.

“When you’re a manager, you’re wanting players to pick themselves. I don’t think this team picks itself and that’s part of his problem.

“He might have three, four or maybe five of his strongest 11 [picked]. I’m blaming the players.

“You don’t know what you’ve got until you get in there and work with the players on a daily basis.

“I’m not blaming him for it, I think it’s more to do with the players not being consistent for whatever reason.”

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Manchester United take on Everton in the Premier League this weekend.