‘It’s really not a drama’: Carrick sticks to the script after Martínez storm

Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick delivers a masterclass in dialling down emotion amidst the club's crisis.

The full report

Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick has produced a masterclass in dialling down emotion before a tricky trip to Leeds, according to The Guardian — Sport. Carrick took questions in the midst of the first crisis engulfing him as Manchester United's manager, with his team bombing in the league after the club's poorest start since 1986 and out of the Carabao Cup. The Guardian — Sport reports that Carrick's team are 13th in the league, six points from the first six games, after drawing 1-1 with Tottenham at Old Trafford.

Carrick's performance was impressive, particularly given the heightened glare on United since Tuesday evening's Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. The Guardian — Sport notes that Carrick's team are struggling to juggle competitions, with elimination by Brighton at the earliest stage of the Carabao Cup not being a great calling card regarding an ability to do so.

Carrick has to find the right blend from his front six, which includes Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Marcus Rashford, Amad Diallo, Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos, and Carlos Baleba. The Guardian — Sport reports that the team has the most shots (125) and most touches in the opposition box (205) in the Premier League, but a faulty rearguard is hampering their attack.

Carrick's performance was also notable for his ability to stay calm and composed, even when challenged by a questioner. The Guardian — Sport notes that Carrick's interjection came with a smile, and he said: 'I'm telling you the truth when I say that. Do you not believe me, no? The players totally believe me. I'm telling you the truth.'