Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has questioned the quality of Manchester United’s squad, singling out six players he believes are not good enough to help the club return to the top of English football.

Gerrard’s criticism comes after United suffered a humiliating 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth at Old Trafford on Sunday, leaving Michael Carrick’s side 16th in the Premier League table.

The defeat has intensified speculation surrounding Carrick’s future, with the Red Devils sitting just one point above the relegation zone.

However, Gerrard believes United’s problems extend beyond the manager, insisting that several players should no longer be representing the club.

Speaking on Overlap Daily, as reported by GOAL, the former England midfielder questioned the continued presence of experienced defenders Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw, while also expressing concerns about Lisandro Martinez.

Gerrard acknowledged that Maguire and Shaw had enjoyed successful careers but argued that United should have moved on from them earlier.

What Gerrard Said

“If you go through the squad, the back four. Harry Maguire’s had a really good career, Luke Shaw, I played with Luke, he was top in his day,” Gerrard explained.

“They’re not Manchester United players anymore. They should have been moved on quicker.

The Liverpool legend also turned his attention to United’s midfield, where summer signings Andrey Santos and Carlos Baleba have struggled to provide the improvement expected of them.

“You look at the midfield, they signed a player from Chelsea, £50 million, [Andrey] Santos, not a Manchester United player. Then it goes to recruitment higher up,” Gerrard noted.

“Why are you signing players that are not good enough to play for Manchester United? These [are] the only players you can attract now, but he’s not a Manchester United player. Baleba, £70 million. He’s got potential. He’s not ready to help Manchester United compete at the top of the league now.

“You look on the sides of the pitch. When I played against United, you had [Ryan] Giggs, [David] Beckham, world class players.

“I look at the sides of the pitch. Young Amad [Diallo]. Hot and cold. When he’s good, he’s good. But hasn’t shown nothing this season.”

Meanwhile, Carrick continues to face uncertainty over his position following United’s disappointing start to the campaign.

Former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe, Antonio Conte and Julian Nagelsmann have all been linked with the job should United decide to make another managerial change.

Carrick is expected to oversee training on Tuesday, although his long-term future remains uncertain as the club searches for a solution to its worsening situation.