Jose Mourinho’s refusal to stick with settled Man Utd defence likely to face hazardous fire on week of reunions 

For all the euphoria Manchester United fans will have felt in the immediate aftermath of Alexis Sánchez’s late rescue act against Newcastle, not even a last-gasp victory could mask the wretched defensive problems that have become increasingly pronounced this season.

The prospect of Chelsea’s fire starter, Eden Hazard, running at United’s fragile back line at Stamford Bridge on Saturday lunchtime is certainly a sobering thought for those of a red persuasion but the chaos and confusion on the pitch is mirrored by, and perhaps an extension of, that being exhibited off the field.

Jose Mourinho would probably be the first to argue that United’s defensive woes were inevitable the moment some of his centre-half targets were vetoed in the summer and plenty would support the view that reinforcements are required, with the dependence on goalkeeper David de Gea becoming unhealthy.

But just as Mourinho’s tendency to keep criticising his defenders publicly has eroded confidence, the manager’s persistent chopping and changing at the back appears equally damaging, and the combination of the two could yet sink United’s season.

Newcastle were, ultimately, unable to capitalise on an early two-goal lead before losing 3-2 but Brighton, Tottenham, Derby and West Ham have all exploited failings – United conceded 11 goals in those four games alone – and Hazard may have every confidence of doing the same. Cristiano Ronaldo, likewise, when Juventus visit Old Trafford in the Champions League three days later.