Carrick hurt by boos after draw against Tottenham

Michael Carrick acknowledged that the boos from Manchester United supporters after the 1-1 draw against Tottenham Hotspur had affected him. Fans voiced their frustration during the match and again at the final whistle, after their side let its advantage slip against an opponent reduced to ten men from the 78th minute.

“It hurts me a lot,” the manager said, adding that he understood the crowd’s reaction when things do not go to plan. Manchester United have now gone four consecutive league matches without a win and have had their worst start to a league campaign in 40 years, two factors that help explain the frustration in the stands.

Carrick also described a difficult first half, with passing problems, a press that came too late and space left for the opposition. He said his side responded better after the break and put itself in a position to take the lead, but could not hold on. He called Tottenham’s late equaliser, scored by Dominic Solanke after Rodrigo Bentancur was sent off, “a summary of everything”.

“We should win these kinds of games, but we haven’t found the right way to do it,” he said, also lamenting the turnovers that kept the match open. He expressed disappointment at not leaving with a victory, while acknowledging that difficult moments sometimes have to be endured and that the criticism had to be understood.

The manager also urged patience with Carlos Baleba. The player, who joined from Brighton in a deal that could reach £70 million, missed the start of the season after an injury during pre-season. Carrick said he was working towards full fitness and that expectations should not be placed too high too soon, while adding that the club was pleased with him at present.