Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville has given his first reaction after the club made their decision on the future of head coach Michael Carrick.
It emerged earlier today that INEOS are prepared to give Carrick another chance to turn around United’s abysmal start to the season.
Neville is “happy” for his former teammate and hopes the decision will act as a catalyst for change at Old Trafford.
He said (via Sky Sports): “I’m happy. I’m surprised but I’m happy because I was absolutely certain what I witnessed on Sunday would be the end of Michael.
“He was waving to the fans in an almost apologetic manner but also as a goodbye. I am surprised that ultimately still in a job, but I’m happy with it because it was very difficult on Sunday.
“How it’s going to go over the next couple of weeks, I have no idea. I hope he can get those players playing for him because they haven’t played for him in the last few weeks.”
INEOS are delaying the inevitable
United suffered humiliating defeats against Como and Bournemouth last week, leaving the former midfielder on the brink of losing his job.
The Red Devils have won just two of their 12 games and sit only one point above the Premier League relegation zone.
It is difficult to comprehend how the same group of players who helped secure third place in the league last season are now struggling to show even basic levels of effort and commitment.
The coaching staff deserve criticism for their tactical shortcomings, but the players must also take responsibility for their performances.
The lack of running, intensity and urgency has been alarming.
The statistics clearly show that United are being overrun in midfield and across the pitch game after game, but the eye test paints an even more troubling picture.
Carrick faces an enormous task if he is to save his job, particularly if his players have lost faith in his leadership.
Neville is right to suggest that the next two weeks will reveal a great deal about the squad and whether the players are genuinely prepared to give everything for their manager.
Stats from Fotmob.com