Manchester United dropped to 10th position in the Premier League table on Sunday after losing 1-0 to Manchester City at the Etihad.
It has been United's worst start to a league season since 1986, but there are some positive signs for Louis van Gaal's side.
Here, Sports Mole rounds up Monday's top United-related news stories and main talking points.
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United getting closer?
It has not been a good start to the season for United, but head coach Van Gaal is confident that his side are improving following their recent displays against Chelsea and Manchester City.
That is a view also shared by former Arsenal captain Martin Keown, who believes that the Red Devils are starting to show progression under the Dutchman.
Sunday's performance at the Etihad was certainly much-improved compared to last season and had Chris Smalling not picked up two daft bookings, it might have been a different story. Who knows?
While performances have certainly improved in recent weeks, points make prizes and it has not been good enough thus far this season. Skipper Wayne Rooney, however, is confident that a run of positive results are just around the corner.
> Click here to read more reaction from the City result
Anyone seen United's back four?
Oh Smalling, Smalling, Smalling, Smalling. United made a positive start to Sunday's derby, but were left with a mountain to climb when the English centre-back was sent off. Of course, with the red card as clear as day, that means a suspension and more defensive woes.
Phil Jones and Jonny Evans – has anyone seen him recently? – are still on the sidelines, while Marcos Rojo suffered a dislocated shoulder in Sunday's clash with City. Oh and before the match, Rafael was ruled out after suffering a knock in training.
As a result, United finished the derby with a back four of Antonio Valencia, Michael Carrick, Paddy McNair and Luke Shaw. Is United's back four cursed? Will they strengthen in January? Van Gaal's most immediate concern is putting together a defence for this weekend's clash with Crystal Palace.
Borussia Dortmund's Mats Hummels could now fancy a move to Old Trafford following his side's struggles in the early part of the season, while Barcelona's Gerard Pique looks increasingly likely to leave the Camp Nou in January due to his strained relationship with head coach Luis Enrique.
> Click here to read more transfer speculation surrounding United
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Fellaini a spitter?
United boss Van Gaal has strongly denied claims that Marouane Fellaini spat at Sergio Aguero during Sunday's derby. The big Belgian was clearly unhappy with Aguero's fall inside the penalty area and made his feelings known to the Argentine.
In truth, it does look more a case of Fellaini failing to control his saliva when shouting at Aguero rather than a deliberate spit, but what do you make of the footage? Slow motion always looks worse doesn't it?
United fancy Draxler?
It has been reported that United could make a move for long-term Arsenal target Julian Draxler in the January window. The 21-year-old is seen as one of the best talents in European football, but do United really need more attackers?
There would be complications to the deal for the Schalke 04 youngster, with Draxler currently on the sidelines with a hamstring problem, which will reportedly keep the German international out of action for the remainder of the year.
It is understood that Van Gaal is prepared to pay £35m for the attacker, showing that United's spending is far from over despite flexing their significant financial muscle in the summer transfer window.
> Click here to read the latest news surrounding Draxler
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United have agreed Falcao deal?
United have reportedly already agreed to pay £44m to sign Radamel Falcao on a permanent contract next summer.
The 28-year-old moved to Old Trafford on loan from Monaco this summer, but the Colombian has openly spoken about his desire to make the move permanent at the end of the current campaign.
The Colombian is said to be picking up £240,000 a week during his loan spell, but he has not featured in United's last two matches due to injury.
The powerful striker has scored once this season and impressed when on the field, but it remains to be seen whether previous and indeed current injuries harm a potential permanent deal. Radamel, time to get yourself fit.
> Click here to see the upcoming games where Falcao will hope to feature
Matt Law
