Paul Scholes entered the game with a smile on his face and a spring in his step.
What ensued was an edgy performance which was epitomized when he gave a sloppy ball away that led to the second City goal.
However, despite the 'Ginger Maestro's' rusty performance, it was the complete lack of leadership in the roots of the team that was plain to see.
Patrice Evra is not a captain. He has been an outstanding performer for United over the years, but he does not have the leadership qualities needed at the highest level.
There is no doubt the Suarez incident has affected him. One instance during the match that portrayed his lack of control was Rio Ferdinand shouting in his face and Evra turning away, not wanting to know.
Nor is Ferdinand a leader. His lack of concentration and desire has been obvious this season. Without Vidic, he seems half the player.
Young players such as Chris Smalling and Phil Jones cannot be expected to shoulder the responsibility, while Michael Carrick has never been a leader as such.
With Vidic out for the season, United have no obvious leader other than Wayne Rooney—although we know his indifferent form has affected the team heavily.
The lack of leadership may stem from the departure of Carlos Tevez and Cristiano Ronaldo in 2009.
Despite what anybody may think of the pair, they performed when the going got tough.What's more, United have not replaced Roy Keane in the centre of the park. There seems to me no spine to the team and this may lead to the signing of Cheik Tiote either in January or the summer.
We don't know if Vidic will ever return to the levels of performance he has shown in recent years.
Therefore, Sir Alex needs to buy players who have a winning attitude and captaincy potential.
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