Hi du dapples, I've got exactly the same problem this season, I'm lvl 7. And currently in 12th place, lost 8 outta 12 matches, with 23 GA.
I have a player in MC, 5-5-6-5-4 form and a skill of playmaker. Skill level of 5stars
Now on the selling list.
Let's see what happens once he's gone...