Carrick demands more clean sheets to turn Man United season around

Michael Carrick has called on Manchester United to improve their defensive record and keep more clean sheets as he looks to turn the club’s difficult season around.

Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League trip to Italian side Como, the United manager acknowledged that winning matches is essential to easing the pressure surrounding his position at Old Trafford.

United have won just two of their 10 games in all competitions this season, marking their worst start to an English top-flight campaign in 40 years. They were also eliminated from the League Cup by Brighton last month and suffered a heavy defeat to Atlético Madrid in the Champions League last week.

Carrick, who was appointed permanent manager in May following an impressive spell as interim boss during the second half of last season, has quickly come under scrutiny as United continue to struggle for consistency.

The former midfielder said the team must start delivering results rather than focus on speculation about his future.

“I know we’ve got to win football games for everything to flow and everything to fit into place. That’s the great thing about it, we can do something about it,” Carrick told reporters at his pre-match press conference in Italy.

“I don’t need any reassurance. It’s pretty clear.

“I know the role, I know the responsibilities. I don’t need anyone else to kind of tell me that or tell me when it’s going well or when it needs to be better. I know that myself.”

Improving United’s defensive organisation and ability to keep opponents from scoring will be central to any recovery, with Carrick seeking greater consistency at both ends of the pitch.

His efforts have been complicated by an expanding injury list, further limiting his options as United attempt to get their campaign back on track.

Lisandro Martínez started Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Leeds United despite criticising the club’s lack of transfer activity following the defeat to Atlético Madrid. However, the Argentine defender was substituted at half-time and will miss the trip to Como.

Luke Shaw, Kobbie Mainoo, Marcus Rashford, Benjamin Šeško, Patrick Dorgu and Ayden Heaven are also unavailable, leaving Carrick with further selection problems ahead of a crucial European fixture.

With United struggling to find consistency, Carrick will hope a stronger defensive display and a return to winning ways can provide the platform for a turnaround.