Tell them where they can throw that statistic about Manchester United’s worst start to a season since 1989 the next time it comes up.

Those who claim this is their worst start in 34 years are incorrect. It isn’t.

This one is far worse… it’s just that the sheer numbers alone don’t tell the whole story.

Back then, United fans had very different expectations than they do now. Maybe there would have been a good Cup run back then.

Given a lucky draw or two, maybe even silverware. In addition to the consistent triumph over Liverpool, which they always seemed to obtain.

Despite their best efforts, no one expected much more to celebrate in May.

Nothing resembles what we have today. But it didn’t seem to make a difference. This is not the case. For a variety of reasons.

To begin with, you were guaranteed entertainment from a crew that cared regardless of the outcome.

Players who appeared defeated were as detrimental to them as anyone else on the United Road Paddock.

However, it was also because fans believed the squad was on the right route. They may only be baby steps, but they are in the right direction.

Despite everything Sir Alex Ferguson would eventually amass, not everyone was convinced he was the right man for the job.

Nonetheless, jews were building and strengthening, and things were getting better year after year.

In the summer of 1989, Gary Pallister, Paul Ince, and Neil Webb arrived to Old Trafford.

England’s best ball-playing center back, grittiest midfielder (second only to new colleague Bryan Robson), and possibly the league’s best passer. Danny Wallace, a speedster, was also swiftly added.

It wasn’t about someone they overlooked or never sought, like Harry Kane and Declan Rice.

Even though there were frequently more dips than peaks, followers thought that things will improve in the end.

They lacked recent title-winning experiences to convince them that, for whatever reason, their club deserved more.

Expectations didn’t exceed the achievable.

Not like today’s Reds. It’s been a decade since they last raised the title flag here, but they haven’t been relegated or spent years flirting with the bottom.

This generation of United players includes World Cup winners, former European champions, national captains, and national legends.

Back then, it was all about Bruce and Pallister, Keane and Robbo, Hughes and McClair. Those who were concerned with whether they won, lost, or tied.

Who would go to war? They might succumb, but not without a fight.

This group? After apologizing on social media, move forward. Next week, they’ll be force-fed more crap about how they’ll get it right.

Rafa Varane deserves respect for keeping a straight face when claiming his team is the best in Europe.

In truth, they are the poorest team in Group A.

Gutless, hopeless, and turning into murderous hopeless.