Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer deserves more time despite their disappointing start to the Premier League season.
United ended last season on a high by securing their place in the Champions League and finishing third in the table.
An influx of star quality was expected in the summer transfer window but that failed to materialise as they missed out on their top target Jadon Sancho and were forced into last-gasp action, signing four players on deadline day.
To compound matters, United have two of their opening three games of the season.
Before the international break, United suffered a 6-1 defeat to Tottenham at Old Trafford.
It means they currently sit 16th in the table which has put pressure on Solskjaer.
But Sutton believes the criticism has been harsh and more patience is required at United.
"Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has taken a hammering," Sutton said on the BBC's Football Focus.
"I feel a little bit sorry for him. I think there needs to be a bit more patience at Manchester United.
"When you saw the job he did last season, they finished third.
"Their defence is getting slaughtered. They were 18 goals better off last season from the previous season.
"The season has just started. It is not all about throwing money at it.
"I think Solskjaer proved it last season [because] virtually every player in the Manchester United team improved under him in my opinion."
