Manchester United may still be top of the Premier League on paper but after two consecutive defeats, they have to face up to the squad's weaknesses.

The past week was a nightmare for Ferguson's side. Twin defeats, especially yesterday's bitter loss to arch-rival Liverpool, hard on the heels of defeat at Chelsea, mean they are now just three points ahead of Arsenal, and Arsene Wenger's side has a game in hand.

Above all, the loss at Anfield exposed United's biggest weakness - their lack of pace and power in central midfield.

Scholes still plays a vital role in directing Red Devils' attack. But at the age of 36, the veteran struggled to make an impact in his second high-octane game inside a week.

Ferguson started Carrick alongside Scholes in central midfield, only to see the England international's recent poor form continue. It is no wonder Carrick's contact extension with the club last week was greeted with indifference from the fans.

United have Fletcher, Anderson and Gibson on the bench, all of whom can take on a central midfield role. They are good players, but none of them are genuinely world-class.

Man United may still claim the Premier League title by relying on their resilience and winning instincts. But the current squad is reaching the end of the line.

With Edwin van der Sar and Gary Neville due to retire after this campaign, it is time for United to bid farewell to aging, injury-prone, and out-of-form players and start building a new squad. And the best place to start rebuilding is the midfield. Names like Luka Modric, Jack Rodwell and Ashly Young are reportedly on the club's wish-list. These are the kind of young players who can supply speed, power, and inspiration to United's midfield.

We can expect that when the current campaign ends, Ferguson will reach for the Glazers' chequebook.