Top five reasons why Manchester United fans could lose faith in Michael Carrick

The Red Devils are once again struggling to perform in the Premier League.

Before the September-October international break, Manchester United were able to salvage a point against Fulham courtesy of a late equaliser from Matheus Cunha. But it meant United had gone three games without a win in the Premier League. They earlier also lost 3-2 to Brighton in the Carabao Cup, despite having a two-goal lead.

Just after the international break, this past Saturday, they again drew a league game. This time a 1-1 result against Tottenham at Old Trafford. United were 12th in the Premier League going into the international break, with only one win in their first five games.

Now, they are 13th. Fans may lose faith in some of head coach Michael Carrick’s judgements. He must act quickly to restore trust.

Reasons why Manchester United fans could lose faith in Michael Carrick

5. Not taking enough risk with young players

Shea Lacey, a young winger for Manchester United, demonstrated his abilities against Brighton earlier, scoring after only eight minutes.

With Michael Carrick’s team chasing a game against Fulham, it seemed like the perfect moment to bring him in off the bench. Instead, Carrick used just three of his five available substitutes. The first came in the 77th minute.

With minutes to go until Cunha equalised, there was no excuse not to put in Lacey, who had just demonstrated his ability to score for United.

4. Not using Kobbie Mainoo enough

Carrick chose to replace Kobbie Mainoo, who was undoubtedly United’s finest performer against Fulham (20 September PL clash), as the team pushed for an equaliser.

The English midfielder has demonstrated this season that he is Manchester United’s finest player at driving from deep, which might be critical when hunting for a goal. Despite this, Carrick chose to take him off, which was another unusual action.

3. Inconsistent and flawed tactics

The tactic has not been good for United’s overall performance. They were once again thoroughly overwhelmed at the weekend against Tottenham.

Only four Premier League teams have run fewer minutes per game than Manchester United. This may be OK if you win every week. But it is a negative image if you are unable to produce regular results.

2. Don’t know when to make substitutions

Making only three changes when chasing a game is not the first time Carrick has failed to respond during crucial moments.

Michael Carrick made only two changes against Manchester City, despite United being down to 10 men and needing to score. Again, Lacey and Mason Mount were on the bench. Carrick was hesitant to substitute an offensive player for a defender.

1. Michael Carrick’s system getting exposed

Watching United, there does not appear to be much of a backup plan. United have a difficult time pursuing games since their offensive approach is mostly focused on striking teams in transition.

They confront significant challenges when attempting to break down teams. The lack of a backup plan may cause United supporters to lose trust rapidly.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.