Match Day Man Utd v Everton, Tuesday 4th April 20:00

[Pagnell]

The comparison with Ferguson is a bit silly as Rudolph's percentage is over a period around 35 times longer. The Moyes one is the better example, as they have been in charge for around the same period and the Scot was sacked.

I'd be interested to see what the direct comparison is in terms of average points per home game between Moyes and Mourinho.

 

[Renegade]

There has been a measurable improvement in United's play this season. They have done reasonably well defensively (somehow Mourinho has managed to cobble together a decent defence from players that we assumed were finished and former midfielders) and they have only created less chances than Liverpool in the league. Finishing has been a huge issue - apart from Ibrahimovic, the attacking players have been woeful in front of goal. I think Mata, who is a bit part player at this point, is the only other player who shouldn't be ashamed of their shooting this season. Yes, this can be put partly down to Mourinho's failings in training, but they are playing significantly better football than they were under Moyes and Van Gaal. They control games far more consistently this season.

Chances created/goals conceded/possession:

2016/17: 2nd/3rd/3rd (Mourinho)
2015/16: 17th/2nd/3rd (LVG)
2014/15: 6th/4th/2nd (LVG)
2013/14: 9th/5th/6th (Moyes)

The league is much stronger this season (we've had a recent influx of three of the best managers in world football) and the chances that United have failed to take again and again has led to a league high 12 draws, the majority of which they have dominated. This is why the points tally is so low. There is no comparison with Moyes or LVG, the performance standard has been significantly better and it's obvious to anyone who regularly had to watch the turgid football of the previous three seasons.

It's not 'hoof it up to Fellaini' tactics, I think that myth has continued from the LVG days. A lazy cliché. This is the first time in years I have enjoyed and been pleased by how they play. Shame they can't finish though, eh?