Roy Keane believes that Manchester United are "well short" of the quality needed to be a top team ahead of a big cup clash with Nottingham Forest this week.
The Red Devils succumbed to a late 3-2 defeat against Arsenal on Sunday, crushing any faint hopes they had of mounting a challenge for the Premier League title. Eddie Nketiah grabbed the winning goal in the final moments of normal time in an entertaining encounter.
That ended a 10-game unbeaten streak in all competitions for Erik ten Hag's side, but more importantly for Keane it exposed where United are lacking in their squad. With Casemiro, Anthony Martial and Diogo Dalot ruled out at the weekend, the Irishman says their squad depth is not where it should be after spending so much money in the transfer market.
READ MORE: Forest answering transfer critics as striker makes a point amid speculation
SEE ALSO: Paul Merson floored by Nottingham Forest transfer
"The last few days have obviously been difficult with dropping points at the last minute at Palace, the defeat today, so yeah that's what the game does to you. United weren't at their best but you think 'could you hang on for a draw?' Take your point and move on," the former Man United and Nottingham Forest midfielder told Sky Sports.
"It goes back to where United have progress, but at the end of the game I'm looking (at the team), Shaw's still at left-back, question marks over him, Wan-Bissaka, Fred's back in midfield, McTominay; it's as if United haven't moved on from the problems of the past. I'm not blaming just them players, because it was a tough game, you have to give credit to Arsenal. But it is a reality check.
"I've said it for the last few weeks, I still think United are well short. I know they're missing important players today, but that's the game, you're going to be missing players. A squad like Man United should be able to deal with it.
"With 20 minutes left when the going got tough you're looking at the options off the bench and it wasn't great. For all the money United have spent, they're still well short and we saw that against an Arsenal team that are obviously flying.
"I always felt United were certs for top four, I think they'll be fine for that, probably try and win a cup, but in terms of league titles they have a bit to go yet."
Forest host United in the first leg of the Carabao Cup at the City Ground on Wednesday night, with kick off set for 8pm. The return leg takes place a week later at Old Trafford.
What do you think? Drop us a comment!
READ NEXT:
- Forest transfer questioned as Steve Cooper gives explanation
- Steve Cooper delivers verdict on Forest's draw with Bournemouth
- Update provided on Ryan Yates after injury worry for Forest man
- Cooper explains thought behind key Forest selection decision
- Find the footballs on NottinghamshireLive to win prizes!
Get the latest Nottingham Forest transfer news straight to your inbox by subscribing to our daily newsletter!
