‘With every setback the youngsters are sinking’

Ex-United midfielder Darren Fletcher

“The scenes in the stadium weren’t good – the chanting, the atmosphere really turned toxic for the first time.

“At the minute, you can see with every setback these youngsters are just sinking.

“It was difficult for me coming into the team and I was surrounded by world-class players.

“These lads don’t have that support network around them and they’re really finding it difficult.”

Former United defender Rio Ferdinand, below

“I can’t defend this. What has been invested? These young kids now, in schools around the country, they’re not going to be wearing Manchester United shirts.

“They’re not going to be wanting to come here and support Manchester United, based on what you are seeing out there. It’s just not going to happen – fans are walking out. It’s an embarrassment.

“People at the top need to look and see this and make changes, put a plan in place that people can sit there and see where we’re going now. I don’t see it.”

Ex-England striker Peter Crouch “Look at the options off the bench. It is miles off it. I don’t know what a Manchester United player is any more.

“Most of the players that Manchester United have bought in the last five years have gone

backwards.”

Ex-England defender Martin Keown “Alarm bells are ringing. I don’t think Solskjaer is going to last beyond the end of the season.

“I know people are saying he should be given more time, but this is Manchester United. It’s a massive club.”