Erik ten Hag may have somehow formed a potent attacking selection in the short term but Manchester United's striker issue is far from solved.
Marcus Rashford’s record of three goals from his last four games is very promising but there’s no guarantee he’ll continue his rich vein of form. Anthony Martial is fantastic on his day, but many are questioning whether that day will actually come amid his horrendous injury record.
Both attackers are currently sidelined, which has allowed Cristiano Ronaldo to lead the line for the past two matches. He might have got 24 goals last season but his age looks to be catching up with him, even if he did open his account against Sheriff Tiraspol last time out.
READ MORE: Manchester United ace Cristiano Ronaldo suffers nasty face injury while playing for Portugal
Besides, the superstar has not revoked the transfer request he submitted in the summer and could push for an exit again in January. He suffered a nasty facial injury while on international duty for Portugal against the Czech Republic on Saturday.
He was fine to play out the rest of the game - and even managed to provide an assist and concede a penalty - but the incident came as a warning that United are still less than secure at the top end of the pitch.
Ten Hag knows he needs a long-term talisman who is going to net north of 15 goals a season, perhaps higher, if he is to complete his rebuild project. Ronaldo’s days are numbered and Martial spends more time off the pitch than on it.
Rashford is going great guns but his form peaks and troughs, as Reds fans know all too well. Ten Hag needs a striker who is going to usurp all three current options and perform consistently.
History tells Ten Hag he cannot rely on Martial and Rashford to carry United. Alejandro Garnacho is an exciting future prospect but won't be ready to be thrust into such a high-pressure situation anytime soon.
For all these reasons, United will do their best to keep hold of Ronaldo in January and look to next summer to find their new man, but Ten Hag would be unwise not to be making future attacking transfer plans.
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