Manchester United have turned many corners this season. Trouble is, lurking around the corner tends to be another minefield ready to blow up in their face.
Each victory, however unconvincing, has been presented as a 'season really starts here' moment only to be followed by another round of demoralising defeats and recriminations.
The trio of wins over Brentford, Sheffield United and FC Copenhagen either side of the October internationals offered renewed belief that was gleefully shattered by Manchester City and Newcastle both winning 3-0 at Old Trafford in the space of four days.