Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images
Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images
Michael Carrick cut a defeated figure during his post-match press conference after Manchester United dropped a 2-0 lead to lose to Brighton in the Carabao Cup.
Following Manchester United’s 3-2 loss, there were loud boos and chants around Old Trafford voicing the obvious fact that this is not good enough, not even close to it. During his interview with Sky Sports, Michael Carrick admitted that this had gotten to him as he looked and sounded defeated and saddened.
Carrick will know that this season hasn’t been anywhere near good enough, and three defeats in six is a pretty indefensible record which might yet get worse this weekend against Fulham. Despite taking a 2-0 lead, United simply weren’t good enough to deserve the win, creating one chance after the second goal in the 10th minute.
But as much as it is on Carrick, he deserves better from his players. However, despite being let down, he has refused to stoop to a low Ruben Amorim found as second nature.
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Michael Carrick defends Manchester United post Brighton
Manchester United were terrible against Brighton; there is no escaping it. Outside of Shea Lacey and Youri Tielemans, nobody can hold their heads high. Benjamin Sesko had his worst game for the club, playing at half speed and losing the ball at the slightest contact.
While Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven were a disaster pairing at the back, again costing United with a lack of urgency to get back in transitions. Yet despite the players letting him down, Carrick has defended them.
“This is unacceptable. I take responsibility for it”, Carrick explained regarding the display from his side.
“The performance towards the end of the second half is my fault.”
This is very different from when Amorim would throw players under the bus at any given opportunity, defending only himself and his system, which is now also failing at AC Milan.
But Carrick defended his players and the club, showcasing his love for United. Shouldering the blame so that if he is replaced, the negativity and criticism go with him.
Carrick looked on the verge of tears, which was heartbreaking to see. Despite what he says, he was let down by the players, and had there been a bit more desire, then Brighton might not have won the tie.
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Carrick’s character cannot be faulted
12 months ago, everyone was starting to get quite sick of Amorim and his snide comments directed at his players or the academy. He was then rightfully replaced.
But if Ineos decides to move on from the Carrick era before it gets worse, it won’t be a slight against him as a character, nor does it tarnish his legacy.
Carrick loves this club and just wants what is best for it. He could easily throw players under the bus after a performance like that, but instead, he gets in front of the criticism and pins it on himself.
United supporters were right to voice their frustration, and Carrick agreed. But to see it affecting him is tough. If United can’t beat Fulham, hopefully, something will be agreed to move on before things do get slightly more toxic.