Tom Cleverley: I have been average for Manchester United this season

Midfielder has been much-criticised by United supporters this season

Tom Cleverley has struggled for form this season

Tom Cleverley has admitted that he has been “average” this season.

The midfielder has been a much-maligned figure for Manchester United supporters this season as the team struggle to life without Sir Alex Ferguson at the helm, and currently sit in an unfamiliar ninth position in the Premier League.

Cleverley has made 10 appearances for David Moyes in the league this season, but has failed to have much of an impact. The 24-year-old, however, has vowed to improve.

"At the moment, I feel like I've got more to give," the England international told United Review.

"I've had a few average games, a few more than I would prefer. But I felt this time last year was when I hit my best form of the season, when we were playing every few days.

"I'm the type of player who prefers that and, if I can get into a rhythm, then hopefully I can add more than just appearances to my record, I can also add some stand-out performances."

As well as his overall game, Cleverley says he is working hard on the defensive aspect of his midfield role.

"I'm definitely developing the defensive side of my game and tactically the manager is teaching me a lot of things," he said.

"Maybe the creative side of my game can improve a little bit too but I realise that's not my only job in the team and sometimes I've got to sacrifice that part.

"I felt Chelsea at home, defensively and tactically, was a mature performance and I thought I was having a really good game at Fulham before a bang on the head gave me double vision and I had to come off.

"I'd pick those two, and the really good team performance at Swansea on the opening day, as my best so far."