Michael Carrick expressed his hope that Manchester United's victory over Liverpool would serve as a tonic for Sir Alex Ferguson after the legendary former manager experienced a health scare ahead of Sunday's match. The 84-year-old felt unwell at Old Trafford and was taken to hospital as a precaution more than an hour before kick-off, though it is understood Ferguson has since returned home.
Following Kobbie Mainoo's decisive strike, which secured a 3-2 win for United against their historic rivals, Carrick commented: 'I haven't received any updates. I did hear about it before the game, so I was aware. All I can say is that it affected me. We hope he is in good shape and wish him all the best—hopefully the result gives him a good boost.'
According to the Press Association, Ferguson is reportedly 'OK.' He was initially assessed in the tunnel area of the stadium before being transported to hospital.
The victory confirmed United's return to the Champions League next season, a target Carrick set when he took over from Ruben Amorim in January. This result strengthens his case for the head coach role on a permanent basis. Matheus Cunha, who scored United's first goal on Sunday, drew comparisons between Ferguson and Carrick.
Comparisons to Ferguson
'We are learning so much when Michael comes in. He came with magic—Alex Ferguson vibes,' said the Brazilian. 'He talks extensively about his team, the conquering team. We focus hard to reach the objective. At the end of the day, this is just the start of the journey. It is the beginning—a beautiful beginning!'
Carrick's 10th win in 14 games in charge puts United in a strong position to finish third behind Arsenal and Manchester City. When asked if he would be disappointed not to be given the job permanently, the 44-year-old said: 'I love what I am doing. It is a great position for me to be in, and it feels pretty natural, if I am totally honest. I am not being blasé because it is a difficult role, but it feels like I have been here a long time on and off. I understand what it brings, and being in this position is a good place to be.'
'We will have to wait and see. When we came in, the Champions League seemed a bit distant. We wanted to get back into Europe, and to be there with three games to spare is a big achievement. Whatever happens will happen. It has been a good run. We have beaten some very, very good teams, and it has been challenging. Sometimes we have won in one way, sometimes in another.'
Mainoo's Winner
Mainoo's winning goal was his first of the season, capping a week in which he signed a new six-year contract worth £150,000 per week. The 21-year-old's future at his boyhood club had appeared uncertain after being marginalised under Amorim.
'It is difficult any time you are not playing football,' said Mainoo. 'I tried to keep my head down, work hard, and look forward as much as possible. I am so blessed to be in this position. I am glad to be here, and my future is at this club. I used to dream about days like this. It is nice to be back among the goals; I haven't scored for a while.'
'To turn the season around the way we have is credit to all the players and the manager. He gives so much confidence to not just me but all the players. We still need to finish the season strong; this is not enough for us. It was a huge goal for us to get Champions League, but the season is not over yet. We are not letting our foot off the gas.'
