Graeme Souness thinks Manchester United’s players looked like a team “in their armchairs” in their 4-0 loss to Everton on Sunday.
They have now lost six of their last eight games in all competitions and this week’s visit from in-form, title-chasing rivals Manchester City seems the last thing they need.
The Red Devils sit sixth in the Premier League and are two points off Arsenal – who occupy the final Champions League place – with four matches of the season left.
“That was a team in their armchairs – not a team trying to qualify for the Champions League,” Souness told Sky Sports.
“It was a team that was plodding, drifting and going through the motions.
“The manager needs support because there was no fire from start to finish.”
However, wing-back Ashley Young thinks their derby against City will be the perfect match to bounce back after United’s terrible performance against Everton.
“We have got another tough one coming up on Wednesday, a Manchester derby,” Young said.
“I don’t think we have to speak about that – we know how important that is going to be. If you can’t get yourselves up for a Manchester derby there is something wrong.
“I think it can be (the best thing), it is a Manchester derby. I’ve got confidence in every player that we are going to be ready on Wednesday.
“We have got to dust ourselves down fairly quickly and go again this week.”