In Matchweek 9 of the Premier League, Manchester United fell 0-2 away against Chelsea, suffering a three-match losing streak across all competitions, extending their winless run to nine matches, and setting the lowest points tally at this stage in the club's Premier League history.
Reporter: Michael, that was perhaps one of the best halves of football you've played this season—a strong first half, and then Morgan Rogers scores a wonderful goal slicing through the defense unchallenged, followed shortly by a sending-off.
Carrick: We certainly looked dangerous, and the performance in the first half was very, very good. We should have and had every opportunity to take the lead—to score at least one first.
Then the second half started, and things got a bit frantic; we never truly managed to stabilize our footing. Then we conceded a goal we shouldn't have let them score, and shortly after that, the situation deteriorated further... We never managed to seize the rhythm of the game back into our hands, and things simply spiraled from there. So, it was two completely contrasting halves of football, leaving a very mixed feeling.
Reporter: As a manager, watching what unfolded out there, what are your thoughts on that red card resulting from the two yellow cards? When a player is fighting so hard on the pitch, how frustrating is that?
Carrick: Yes, I mean, the red card was naturally a critical turning point in the match. I haven't watched the replay yet, so I don't know exactly what occurred at that moment or whether the decision was clear-cut enough. But regardless, we had just conceded, and then something like that followed immediately, putting the opposition in an extremely advantageous position.
Reporter: Manchester United now sit just one point above the relegation zone, with other matches in this game week yet to be played. You certainly wouldn't want the team to drop into the relegation zone by the end of this weekend. Today you also witnessed the supporters' backing—their singing was remarkably loud, arguably the highest decibel level in the entire stadium. You clearly have the supporters' backing. Do you believe the club can continue to support you and help you navigate this difficult period?
Carrick: The supporters' backing today was simply fantastic, I must say that. You know, with everything they are going through, one can imagine how they feel inside; they are bound to feel frustrated and disappointed. And of course, all of us feel the exact same way.
Yet they still came out today and continued to back the players just as they did in the second half, which demonstrates precisely what they are made of, their stature, and just how incredible they are. They provided unbelievable support, and tonight I have nothing but profound gratitude for them.