ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE (UGNEWSLINE) –Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has acknowledged growing frustration among the club’s supporters following another disappointing Premier League performance, insisting that the players are equally disappointed with the team’s struggles.
Carrick made the remarks after United surrendered a two-goal advantage before fighting back to secure a dramatic 4-4 draw against Aston Villa on Sunday, a result that left the club in 18th position with eight points from 10 league matches.
The manager was responding to questions about supporters booing defender Diogo Dalot when he was substituted during the second half following a difficult performance.
“I understand the frustration of the supporters, so I get it. We’re all frustrated, we’re all disappointed, and the players are as much as anyone, I guarantee you that. Diogo, he gives absolutely everything,” Carrick said.
His comments came amid mounting pressure on the team, which has now gone eight consecutive Premier League matches without a victory, setting an unwanted club record.
United endured a difficult start against Villa, conceding twice within the opening four minutes through Alysson and Nicolas Jackson.
Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty before Youri Tielemans equalised for United, sending the teams into the break level.
However, defensive errors involving Dalot and Leny Yoro allowed John McGinn and Leon Goretzka to put Villa 4-2 ahead.
United appeared destined for another defeat until Joshua Zirkzee and Patrick Dorgu scored late goals to rescue a point in stoppage time.
Despite the comeback, Carrick admitted that his team must address its defensive weaknesses and improve its ability to manage matches.
He also dismissed suggestions that he was considering stepping down, insisting that he expects to remain in charge and continue working towards better results.
“I’m quite clear with what direction the club needs to go in, and it’s got to win games. We haven’t won enough games, but I expect to move forward and keep working on the things that we’ve been working on,” he said.
Meanwhile, Aston Villa manager Unai Emery expressed disappointment after his team conceded twice in the closing minutes, questioning the decision to allow Dorgu’s 96th-minute equaliser to stand.
Manchester United will next face Liverpool away from home on November 22, with Carrick under pressure to end the club’s winless run.
