Victor Lindelof says it's difficult to put a finger on why Manchester United have started the season so poorly.
But the Swede has suggested a lack of time off before the close of last season and the start of this campaign may be to blame.
United were playing in the semi-final of the Europa League while the majority of the Premier League were resting before the new season.
The Red Devils - and Manchester City - were given an extended period of time off as a result, and didn't play on the opening week. But Lindelof has suggested this still wasn't enough, and might be the reason for United's struggles.
"It hasn't been the best start for us in the league, I don't know what it's all about," he told Aftonbladet. "If it's because we played for a long time in Europe [last season] and didn't get the time off we usually get, is difficult to answer.
"We probably had one-two weeks together before the league started and we haven't got to the level we've wanted. But I think after this international break, a lot of players are back and ready to perform at the level we can."
Lindelof is among a group of United stars who has started the season particularly poorly, and there are claims the centre-back is "worn out".
But Lindelof has played this down, saying he's more than capable playing for both his club and his country on a regular basis.
"Not for me personally. I have been set to play two matches in this selection [for Sweden in October]. The body feels good. It's getting started now.
"Yesterday it felt very good in the legs anyway. If [Sweden manager] Janne [Andersson] wants me to play, I have absolutely no problem playing another match."
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