Sunderland: Manchester United slumped to a third consecutive loss for the first time in nearly 13 years when Sunderland added to manager David Moyes' troubles by winning the first leg of their League Cup semifinal 2-1 on Tuesday.
The setback against the Premier League's last-place team completed a hat trick of 2-1 losses at the start of 2014 for Moyes, in his first season as Alex Ferguson's successor.
United, which won the Premier League by 11 points last season before Ferguson retired, trails leader Arsenal by 11 points after losing to Tottenham on New Year's Day.
And the FA Cup quest ended at the first hurdle on Sunday when Swansea won their third round meeting at Old Trafford.
"(The fans) know we are going through a difficult time," Moyes said. "They have probably never seen it as bad as this for a long time. But I am determined to put it right, I'm sure we will."
The Red Devils can still reach the League Cup final at Wembley if they overturn the deficit at Old Trafford on Jan 22.
Sunderland's victory was secured from the penalty spot in the 65th minute by Fabio Borini after United midfielder Tom Cleverley tripped Adam Johnson.
