“Not rocket science”: United legend points to one major thing Carrick has done to achieve “flawless” start

Former Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves has explained the tactical change implemented by caretaker manager Michael Carrick that has inspired the recent golden run. The English manager replaced former head coach Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford in the middle of last month.

The Red Devils opted to part ways with the Portuguese head coach following a dismal 14-month reign that failed to live up to expectations. The English giants struggled to string together results under Amorim, finishing 15th in the league last season.

When even a summer of reinforcements worth over £200 million failed to improve results – United won three consecutive games just once under Amorim – INEOS opted for a change at the turn of the year. Carrick was placed in the hot seat at Old Trafford until the end of the season, when a permanent appointment is expected.

The Englishman has registered four wins and a draw in his five games in charge so far, which includes stunning wins against Manchester City, Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham. While West Ham United ended the 100% record, there is a sense of positivity around the Theatre of Dreams that has not been evident for a while.

Hargreaves has now explained how Carrick has managed to get the Red Devils firing on all cylinders.

How Carrick turned things around

Speaking on The Breakdown for TNT Sports, Hargreaves insisted that Carrick’s change of system has transformed United. He said: “Under Carrick virtually every player is playing a different position except the goalkeeper.”

“Two centre-backs went from playing in a three to a two. The wing backs, now playing as full backs. Went from a midfield two to now playing in a three. Went from having 10’s to wingers. Actually, he’s changed the whole team and everybody. It’s not rocket science. Everybody’s in their natural position and they’re performing.”

“Put Bruno in as a 10 and let him go create. How Kobbie hasn’t played football in a year is mind-blowing. One of the best young talents in the world of football. And for a kid not to play for a year and to come in and play against City and Arsenal and basically run the games is a testament.”

“And obviously Carrick knows that position, but I just think Carras right now, he’s been flawless. He hasn’t got one thing wrong and I’m just delighted for him because the fans have really suffered and it feels like Old Trafford’s back. The fans are happy, but most importantly they’re winning. That’s all this is about is winning. And when you win, it fixes a lot of things.”

United’s managerial dilemma

United’s spectacular form under Carrick has prompted talk of a permanent appointment at the end of the season. The Red Devils have also developed a never-say-die attitude under the Englishman, as evident in the wins against Arsenal and Fulham, and the draw against West Ham.

Michael Carrick: Managerial Career Stats

Source: Wikipedia.

Several former players have already urged United to consider Carrick for the permanent job, including club legend Wayne Rooney. The Red Devils remain linked with quite a few candidates for the job, including Carlo Ancelotti, Luis Enrique, Oliver Glasner and Roberto De Zerbi.

However, a recent report relayed by The Peoples Person states that Carrick is now the favourite for the job.

Final Thoughts

Carrick has already displayed qualities that make him a fine fit for the job, and his position will be further strengthened if he manages to secure a top-four finish this season.

Featured image James Fearn via Getty Images

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