Defiant Michael Carrick Sees Positive Signs as Matheus Cunha Rescues Manchester United at Fulham
Michael Carrick maintained a defiant stance following Manchester United’s 1-1 draw against Fulham at Craven Cottage, insisting his team showed encouraging signs despite equalling their worst start to a Premier League campaign in 12 years.
The Red Devils appeared destined for a third successive defeat in all competitions after a bizarre 63rd-minute own goal from Lisandro Martínez. The Argentine defender inadvertently turned the ball into his own net following a mix-up with debutant goalkeeper Senne Lammens as Calvin Bassey pressed the attack.
However, Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha spared the visitors from defeat in the 89th minute, striking a long-range shot that deflected off Fulham defender David Affengruber to beat Bernd Leno.
Carrick Defends Performance Amid Growing Pressure
Despite managing just one victory in five Premier League fixtures to leave United 12th in the table, Carrick rejected suggestions that his team lacked desire or work rate.
“I didn’t think we were [passive],” Carrick said. “Did you think we were? Football is a difficult game. We controlled a lot of the first half. It’s the Premier League and you will have spells where you don’t have it all your own way.”
Addressing the mounting scrutiny heading into the three-week international break, Carrick added: “What bothers me is that we want better results. We’re going to have a spell where it’s not quite going for you… I’m not despondent because I think we’ve shown some good signs as well.”
Cunha Calls Out Team’s Early Intensity
Goalscorer Cunha offered a contrasting assessment of the match, publicly questioning United’s intensity and energy during the opening phases of the contest.
“After the goal, we played much better with a lot of enthusiasm and character,” Cunha told media after the match. “This needs to be from the start… In the beginning of the second half, they put in more energy than us and we cannot accept this. We always play better after conceding a goal, and it cannot be like this. We need to improve in every single position.”
Carrick downplayed his player’s critique when asked about the comments, stating he did not agree that physical fitness or overall application were to blame.
