EPL: ‘It’s Not That Bad,’ Carrick Defends Man Utd After Everton Draw

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has defended his side’s start to the Premier League season after Sunday’s 2-2 draw at Everton, insisting there is no reason for alarm despite another defensive collapse.

United twice took the lead at Hill Dickinson Stadium but were denied victory after conceding an equaliser deep into stoppage time. The result leaves Carrick’s team with four points from three league matches.

Bryan Mbeumo put United ahead shortly after half-time, before Everton levelled through a powerful long-range effort from Tyrique George. Benjamin Sesko restored the visitors’ advantage with an 88th-minute header, only for Ainsley Maitland-Niles to rescue a point for Everton late on.

Carrick admitted the outcome was disappointing, particularly because United had been close to securing their first away victory of the campaign.

“It’s not that bad,” the manager said, arguing that United had done enough to put themselves in winning positions. He acknowledged, however, that his players needed to handle crucial moments better.

The draw means United have now conceded twice in each of their first three Premier League matches, a defensive record that will concern Carrick. The team also suffered defeat against newly promoted Hull City before recording a 5-2 victory over Ipswich Town.

Carrick accepted that the defensive problems could not be ignored and said United must concede fewer goals if they are to improve their results.

Carrick pointed to Everton’s two long-range strikes, noting that both were high-quality efforts. He nevertheless acknowledged that there were areas of the team’s play that required improvement.

United’s midfield has been strengthened during the transfer window, with Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos and Carlos Baleba among the additions. Defensive reinforcement was limited, leaving Carrick with an ageing group at the back.

There were positives for United, particularly Marcus Rashford’s performance following his return to the club. Carrick praised the forward’s sharpness and threat, saying he created good opportunities despite failing to find the decisive final touch.

United will need to improve quickly, with a demanding fixture against Manchester City at Old Trafford next weekend. Carrick remains confident his side can correct its weaknesses, but the early defensive lapses have already increased pressure on the team. Again.