David Moyes should be afforded the time necessary to shape Manchester United in his image, according to club legend Denis Irwin.

The reigning Premier League champions have endured an indifferent defence of their crown thus far and sit 16 points behind leaders Chelsea in the standings.

"Until he [Moyes] brings players in, puts his own stamp of philosophy the way he wants to play, we have to give him time. It's simple as that," Irwin told Goal.com.

"It's been a tough year for Manchester United in the Premier League, but the Premier League has always been fantastic. I don't think there's any getting away from that

"The club will be very patient. We'll have to win a lot of games to finish in the top four, but as I said, until he brings his own players in and puts his own philosophy on the Manchester United team, we have to give him plenty of time."

The Red Devils welcome bottom side Fulham to Old Trafford this afternoon.