Carrick Calls for Consistency Before Key Villa Clash

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has called for his side to deliver more consistent performances ahead of Sunday’s (Nov 8) Premier League home game against Aston Villa, a match Sky Sports has described as key to his future. Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday (Nov 6), Carrick said his players had to do things better for longer.

“Consistency is the key,” the United boss told reporters, adding that there were no shortcuts and that he knew what his team were capable of. He also said the squad had trained well during the week.

Manchester United Under Pressure

United go into the Villa game 17th in the table, clear of the relegation zone only on goal difference, according to Sky Sports. The broadcaster reported on Thursday (Nov 5) that Carrick has won just one of his last 10 matches in charge.

That lone win came on Tuesday (Nov 3), when United recovered from 2-0 down to beat Roma 3-2 in the Champions League. Bruno Fernandes scored from the penalty spot and Matheus Cunha netted twice, Brit Brief reported. Asked about the Roma win, Carrick described the response from his players as a positive reaction.

Sky Sports said club executives Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada are still weighing their options, but no interim manager is planned should the club decide to sack Carrick. The report said Carrick still has support within the hierarchy, and that the preferred outcome for all sides is an improvement in results with him staying in the job. United have not spoken to any other coach as there is no vacancy, the broadcaster added.

Baleba Out for Weeks

On team news, Carrick confirmed that midfielder Carlos Baleba will be out for a number of weeks and will not play against Villa. He said Baleba would not return at any point during the coming international break.

Carrick added that Patrick Dorgu, who has had hamstring problems, had done some training during the week, and that a decision would be made on whether he could be involved at the weekend.

The match at Old Trafford kicks off at 4.30pm UK time on Sunday, according to Sky Sports, which is 12.30am on Monday (Nov 9) in Malaysia. It is United’s last game before the international break, which Sky Sports said will give the club time to reassess the situation.

Sky Sports also reported that Aston Villa are close to agreeing a new long-term contract with manager Unai Emery.

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