Worrying figure emerges after Man United’s defeat to Newcastle United, this needs to be addressed

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One concerning figure has emerged after Manchester United suffered a 1-0 loss to Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United at St James’ Park.

Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United were second best throughout the contest as an Anthony Gordon goal was enough for the Magpies to record their third straight victory over the Red Devils in all competitions.

Truth be told, the game was hardly a contest until the last knockings of the encounter due to the dominance and the pressure from the hosts on United’s goal.

United did rally briefly but didn’t deserve anything from the encounter against the side that will push them for a Champions League spot this season, once again.

Worrying figure emerges

A worrying figure has emerged from the game which really should get alarm bells ringing at Old Trafford as United’s defensive frailties have been there for all to see this season.

According to a post on X from journalist Duncan Alexander, the Red Devils have conceded the third most shots in the Premier League this season.

With 214 shots conceded, United are only ahead of Luton Town (241) and Sheffield United (266) in the ranking, and this is certainly cause for concern for the Red Devils.

Looking at the game against Newcastle, Eddie Howe’s side had 22 shots in the game, accumulating an expected goals count (xG) of 2.65 in the process, United, meanwhile, had just 0.36 xG.

The numbers do not lie and the gaps in the midfield, that Newcastle were exploiting at will, have been a constant theme of this season, teams create chances against United regularly.

United’s biggest issue

As mentioned, the gaps in the team are just too big at the moment for the Dutchman and the control that the United boss craves is somewhat lacking at this moment in time.

This is partly down to Ten Hag’s midfield. Oftentimes, Scott McTominay will push so far forward, due to the Scotsman’s goalscoring exploits, but this left Kobbie Mainoo to play in the engine room by himself.

The gaps in the midfield were like chasms and Newcastle were exploiting it all day long, this is something the Red Devils have to address.

If they don’t address it, sooner rather than later, United will continue to concede shots at an alarming rate. More often than not, if this carries on, United will lose games as a result.