Michael Carrick has defended his decisions and criticised Manchester United’s lack of effort after captain Bruno Fernandes questioned the coaching staff following a 4-1 defeat by Como.
The result extended Carrick’s winless run to seven matches, a sharp reversal after he guided United to 12 victories in 17 games as caretaker manager towards the end of last season and secured the job on a permanent basis.
Michael Carrick responds after Como defeat
Asked about Fernandes’ criticism of his tactics, Carrick said the team could not expect to win without committing fully in both directions.
“There’s a little bit of whatever system you play, whatever tactics you play, if you don’t run, and you don’t run forward, and you don’t run back, you aren’t going to win,” he said.
Carrick also apologised to supporters and acknowledged that United’s performance had fallen well below the required standard.
“I have to apologise to the supporters. I care about this football club as much as anyone, if not more, with the position that I’m in and what I value this football club. For us to play in that way is not acceptable,” he said.
The manager added that he was not yet considering his own position, insisting his focus was on the supporters who had watched the defeat.
“Listen. I’ve not given my own position any thought – this is for the supporters – I was one of them watching that and I wasn’t happy all,” Carrick said.
The defeat and the public disagreement between manager and captain have increased the pressure around Carrick’s position at Old Trafford, with United’s extended run without a win adding to the scrutiny.
