Since then though Saha has struggled with calf and Achilles problems which have restricted his first-team involvement and contributed to a couple of below-par performances in the disappointing Champions League exit to Porto.

After a two-match absence, the 25-year-old is hopeful of returning for Sunday’s crucial Premiership trip to Arsenal and is desperate to put the last few weeks behind him.

“It’s easy to say this has been the worst time of my career,” he told www.manutd.com.

“I’ve missed matches through injury on quite a few occasions but this has been by far the worst time. The frustration is so high.

“I’ve been like a little kid, like my son when he can’t find a football to kick around in the house. It’s a nightmare.”

To make matters worse, Saha’s arrival has coincided with United slipping out of the title race, dashing his chances of landing a winner’s medal to mark his first season at Old Trafford.

Victory at Highbury on Sunday is essential if the Red Devils are to stand any chance of clawing back Arsenal’s 12-point lead.

With just eight games remaining after this weekend, even a win would only raise an outside possibility of Saha’s new club retaining their crown.

Yet the striker feels if United were to end the Gunners’ record 29-match unbeaten start to the campaign, it could prove the catalyst for a dramatic collapse.

“If we get a result it would put unbelievable pressure on Arsenal,” he said.

“You take great confidence from victories. The win against Tottenham has really changed the atmosphere.

“It feels like it did when I first joined. Then my mind was completely free and it is the same mood among the whole squad now. It’s Arsenal that are under great pressure.”