Sir Alex Ferguson puts Manchester United's disappointing away form down to a difficult fixture list, particularly after European games. As Ferguson pointed out, the Reds have also taken on the remainder of their big-four rivals, plus fourth-placed Aston Villa in an arduous programme.
"We have had a lot of hard games," reflected Ferguson.
"Chelsea, Arsenal and now Man City away from home, straight after a European (match) is not easy.
"Hopefully the second half will promise much better for us because at the moment, we are playing catch-up."