Carrick’s message to Man Utd fans: standards never change

Michael Carrick has used Manchester United’s Yearbook to tell supporters his message was written before the first phase of training resumed on Thursday. The comments are not specific to the club’s ongoing midfield recruitment, which has frustrated fans after missing out on England’s Elliot Anderson to Manchester City for £116 million and Mateus Fernandes’ move to Tottenham for £85 million.

Carrick’s remarks come as he takes charge following the January dismissal of Ruben Amorim, who had guided United to third in the Premier League and a return to the Champions League. The new manager is already demanding further progress from his squad.

"I know it can't always be plain sailing, because the standards are so high," Carrick said. "(But) we know we need to keep improving. We have a huge responsibility here to win and play exciting football. That never changes, and we should always be striving to compete for the biggest trophies."

He added: "There are steps to take but we are in a good place to take them. We've got a fantastic group of players, and we believe they have the required standards of talent, commitment and determination to be successful here. They love being at the club and we can see how badly they want it; that gives us the confidence to know we're really building something and moving in the right direction."

United’s European and domestic cup challenges this season have raised questions about squad depth, particularly after poor performances last term. The club has been linked with several midfielders, including Bournemouth’s Alex Scott, Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni, Tyler Adams of Bournemouth, and Felix Nmecha of Borussia Dortmund. Brighton’s Carlos Baleba was also a summer target.

Carrick is certainly talking a good game, but the next phase of his project will test whether words translate into results on the pitch.