Manchester United are heading into a demanding spell after the current international break, with Michael Carrick facing a crucial test of his squad.
The Red Devils have six games to play across the Premier League and UEFA Champions League in the final 20 days of October.
United return to action on October 10 when Tottenham Hotspur visit Old Trafford in a game that could immediately set the tone for the hectic period ahead.
Spurs strengthened heavily during the summer but have struggled to turn their new additions into a cohesive unit, leaving them rock-bottom of the Premier League with just two points from five games.
From United’s perspective, anything less than three points at home would represent a disappointing result.
Just three days later, the difficulty level rises sharply as United travel to Spain to face Atletico Madrid in their second Champions League fixture.
United’s historically difficult record against Spanish opposition makes this one of the toughest assignments of the month.
Atletico are expected to win this intriguing contest.
The challenge does not get any easier as United then head to Elland Road for a fiercely contested Premier League meeting with Leeds United.
Leeds have made an impressive start to the campaign and could make life extremely uncomfortable for United, with a draw appearing more realistic than an away victory.
United will then board another flight, this time heading to Italy for a Champions League showdown with Como.
Cesc Fabregas has transformed Como’s fortunes since taking charge, and United could find themselves settling for a share of the spoils in another tricky away fixture.
The Red Devils will finally return to Old Trafford to host Bournemouth in the Premier League.
Michael Carrick and his men must target all three points against the Cherries, who are still adapting to the methods of new manager Marco Rose.
The final test of the month arrives on October 31, when Chelsea host United at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea possess considerable attacking threat but have also shown defensive vulnerabilities, just like United. A point would not be a bad result for the Red Devils.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
