Carrick reflects on difficult week at United ahead of Chelsea v Manchester United buildup

Michael Carrick said on Thursday he had reflected on a difficult week at Manchester United ahead of the Chelsea v Manchester United Premier League build-up, speaking amid speculation over his future and the club’s state.

United have gone eight games without a win after their worst league start in 40 years and sit 16th in the Premier League, one point above the relegation zone. Carrick said he had held talks with Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada this week and added: "It’s pretty clear, it’s not always rosy and nice conversations between anyone, whether that’s between me and the players, whether that’s between me, Jason, Omar or the owners. It’s the truth, it’s the hard truth at times and it’s what we need to move forward. Whatever we need to move forward, we will do."

On the reception he and his players received at Old Trafford following defeat to Bournemouth last Sunday, Carrick said: "I’ll be totally honest, it was mixed feelings for me. To have the appreciation from the supporters and that connection and that respect is something I feel strongly about. It wasn’t a nice situation but to feel that was important, of course, but it didn’t make me feel better in the fact that I’m with the players 100% and we’re all in it together. I’ve told the players that, I’m happy to say that."

His remarks came as Manchester United prepare for the Chelsea v Manchester United fixture in the Premier League, with Carrick stressing internal conversations and unity as part of the response to the club’s current results and standing.

The manager’s comments underline the club’s immediate priorities ahead of the match against Chelsea and signal continued dialogue between Carrick, club executives and players as United seek to address their position in the table.