It's going to feel like a very long week for Manchester United fans as they wait to see their side back in action.
After a packed fixture schedule, Ralf Rangnick's side have been blessed with a rare midweek off, though they'd probably like to have another match in order to put things right after a wasteful weekend draw with Watford.
Instead, it will be a long wait until their trip to face Man City on Sunday afternoon, a match which will likely fill fans with dread more than excitement given their recent form.
For interim manager Rangnick, the time off gives him plenty of time to perfect a game plan and work on a few things that need addressing ahead of their derby showdown.
There are three things which need looking at in particular.
Shooting practice
As of late, United's biggest problem has been in front of goal, with their profligacy showcased once again in the weekend draw with Watford.
United have created plenty of chances in matches since Rangnick took charge, but so often their downfall comes from failing to capitalise on their dominance.
In matches against Middlesbrough, Burnley, Southampton and Watford they recorded an expected goal output of 10.99. Yet instead of scoring double figures, they managed just three goals, failing to win any of the aforementioned games.
Chances could be at a premium against City this weekend, and they can't afford to waste any of the ones they do get.
Formation change
United's hopes of getting a positive result at the Etihad could well rely on Rangnick throwing a tactical surprise to catch Pep Guardiola off-guard. It is certainly worth looking at this week.
In the away draw with Chelsea back in November, caretaker manager Michael Carrick sprung his own surprise when Cristiano Ronaldo dropped to the bench in favour of a two-pronged attack consisting of Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford.
A similar system could work well against City and would certainly make sense given the recent poor performances from the Portuguese forward.
A back three approach, as often favoured by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in big matches, is also worth considering given that Rangnick needs a statement result this weekend in order to revitalise a turbulent season.
Strongest XI
Ultimately, the line up this weekend will prove who Rangnick really does trust for the big occasion and, in turn, it could lead him to discover his strongest XI for the remainder of the campaign.
There are big calls to be made on either side at full-back and a big decision to be made at centre-back given the recent form of Victor Lindelof, which has put pressure on the Harry Maguire and Raphael Varane partnership.
In midfield, the 'McFred' axis might be worth resorting to given their success in big matches, while it will also be interesting to see whether or not Paul Pogba is risked from the start.
Ronaldo's role is the headline in attack, but Sancho and Anthony Elanga are both certainly worthy of starts regardless of the formation, and both could experience extra joy if deployed in a two-pronged attack with Bruno Fernandes behind them.
