Carrick: I Don't Need Assurances from Anyone

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has dismissed the need for assurances over his future at the club, insisting he fully understands the weight of responsibility on his shoulders. Speaking ahead of the clash with Chelsea following last weekend's disappointing defeat to Bournemouth, Carrick stressed that his primary focus remains on improving the team's performances. The Red Devils are currently enduring a torrid eight-match winless run, having won just twice in 12 outings across all competitions this season. Club chiefs held a series of meetings earlier this week, ultimately deciding that the former midfielder will remain in charge for the time being.

"I don't need assurances from anyone. I completely understand the situation, my job, the responsibility, and everything that comes with it. I really don't need anyone to reassure me in that regard. After the Bournemouth game, the overriding feeling was disappointment. Dealing with the result was our main priority. What can we improve? What can make the difference? My focus was solely on getting back out on the training pitch with the players and preparing for Chelsea," the manager added.

Carrick also addressed the growing scrutiny surrounding the squad, acknowledging that the atmosphere at Old Trafford after their last outing was tense. However, he maintained that he shuts out external noise and is solely driven by the fans' backing and the team's output on the pitch.

"I don't pay attention to that stuff. I only see what I need to see, and I don't go looking for it because it doesn't help. I care about what the supporters think, how they feel at the stadium and when travelling away, as well as what we give them and what they see from us. Honestly, I disregard everything else. I know this job and I know where we need to improve. I don't need anyone else telling me that," Carrick said.

He also revealed there is a strong collective desire inside the dressing room to turn their fortunes around. "My responsibility is to the players. It's not my job to focus on what happens outside the squad. I know what we can control and what help and guidance the lads need at certain times. Of course, we've had discussions and team meetings. The boys are hungry for success. It hurts because we haven't won enough games, but there is intensity, ambition, and a real desire in this team to do better," Carrick explained.

The United boss went on to defend captain Bruno Fernandes, reaffirming the Portuguese playmaker's pivotal role within the squad. "He is a vital player for this group. He has been and will continue to be. He has led this team exceptionally well in so many matches over recent years and will keep doing so. He is completely committed to the club and determined to put things right. That hasn't changed," Carrick stated.

"It's not about making comparisons. He is our club captain. There are different personalities, characters, and styles of leadership. At the end of the day, it's about what happens on the pitch and whether you win. I understand why questions are asked, but Bruno cares deeply about this club and this team, and he is desperate to do well. We will lead this team together," he added.

Carrick also delivered a blow on the injury front regarding Benjamin Šeško. The striker is set for a spell on the sidelines, though the exact timeframe for his recovery remains unconfirmed. "Unfortunately, it looks like Ben will be out for a period of time. We're still not entirely sure how long. We had to go through the proper process and see how the injury responded to treatment. We're still assessing it. Naturally, it's a major blow for us not to have him available," Carrick concluded.