Carrick insists Man Utd united after Martínez criticism ahead of Leeds trip
Michael Carrick says Manchester United’s squad is united and has put Lisandro Martínez’s criticism behind it ahead of Sunday’s trip to Leeds United.
What we know
- Martínez apologised after comments made following Tuesday’s 2-0 Champions League defeat to Atlético Madrid, when he questioned the squad’s level and aimed criticism at director of football Jason Wilcox.
- The Argentina international indicated United did not have a group strong enough to challenge in the Champions League.
- Wayne Rooney warned that the defender’s post-match remarks could damage the dressing room, but Carrick rejected any suggestion of an internal split.
- Carrick said the issue had been dealt with and that the players trained well on Friday, describing the mood in the camp as the best it has been for some time.
- United have not won in five matches, increasing scrutiny on Carrick and his team.
Next step: Leeds away on Sunday
United now travel to Leeds needing a result to halt their winless run. Carrick believes the events of the past week may strengthen rather than divide his side.
“These situations can bring a group together, and that is what has happened as the week has gone on,” Carrick said. “The boys are in a really good place at the moment.”
The 45-year-old also played down the focus on his own position, insisting the club’s needs come first. “We all need results,” he said. “Manchester United is bigger than any one person — bigger than me, any player or anyone working here. What is right for the club and for the team on Sunday is what matters.”
