Speaking to TNT Sports after the final whistle, a defiant Carrick was keen to ensure that this result does not derail the long-term vision he has established at Old Trafford, stating: ‘Two goals is frustrating anyway, they decide the game today and there’s things to improve on, one game doesn’t change the direction of everything. It doesn’t change the direction of the football club.’
When pressed on what exactly went wrong and which areas required immediate attention, Carrick remained protective of his tactical adjustments. He noted: ‘We have a bit to improve on, it was never going to be perfect; going behind makes it more difficult. Against a promoted team at home, we can’t give them much and they had opportunities. We’re disappointed but it won’t knock us. It’s for us to know and to improve during the week and keep getting stronger as a group, and we have a lot to learn from it.’