Thoughts?

Michael Carrick will go back into Carrington, pouring all his energy and thoughts into working with his coaches to revive Manchester United. Such as: don’t waste Bruno Fernandes’ talents wide, improve the press, make midfield tougher for opponents to play through (Carlos Baleba offers hope) and organise a weak defence (a fit Matthijs de Ligt, who’s not played for 11 months, will help in time). Of course, Carrick himself can improve. He has to act like a Manchester United manager with more authority and energy in the technical area and in press conferences. Carrick’s a modest character, a committed team man, but his role is all about strong, demonstrative leadership. There's a necessary performer element to modern management and that doesn't come naturally to Carrick. He was rightly praised for getting United into the Champions League last season, and for restoring some pride and cohesion after Ruben Amorim. Having won five titles and a Champions League as a player at United, Carrick knows the standards the club should aspire to. United will not find someone who cares more about the club or who works harder to try to get things right than Carrick. Anyway, if not Carrick, then who? Not many suitable A-listers, capable of working with this board and this imbalanced squad, present themselves atm. Carrick deserves some time and patience and a chance to reshape the squad. United need a couple of elite defenders, and a fit centre-forward, not a new head coach. #MUFC