For all the glitz and glamour the signings of Cristiano Ronaldo, Raphael Varane and Jadon Sancho brought to Manchester United in the summer, one outstanding problem remained.
In fact, United's biggest problem. The position fans were crying out for investment. A first-rate, consistent, domineering defensive midfielder. Alas, it did not come to fruition.
Fast-forward to Halloween and United are reeling following last week's embarrassment against Liverpool. Their opponents tonight, Tottenham, aren't faring a whole lot better. Yet they are blessed with reliability in the middle.
Fred and Paul Pogba have flattered to deceive so far this season for Manchester United
Meanwhile, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg is still Tottenham's Mr Consistent in the centre of the park
THE STATS THAT MATTER
Touches
Hojbjerg: 780; Pogba: 588; Fred: 502; McTominay: 306
Duels won
Hojbjerg: 58; Pogba: 50; Fred: 31; McTominay: 24
Passing accuracy in own half
Hojbjerg: 96.