Dominic Calvert-Lewin said he was "not really surprised" by Michael Carrick's decision to change Manchester United's tactics during Sunday's 1-1 draw at Elland Road. The Leeds striker equalised for his side after United had taken the lead.
Carrick unexpectedly altered United's shape for the trip to Leeds, using a back five at times throughout the match. The system mirrored the one employed by his predecessor, Ruben Amorim. Leeds switched to a back five at the end of last season, a tweak that proved crucial in helping them avoid relegation. Daniel Farke's side have continued to improve this campaign, but Carrick found a way to counter their system by lining up in the same way.
Calvert-Lewin on United's formation
Speaking to Sky Sports after full-time, Calvert-Lewin said of United's tactics: "They tried to [match us formation-wise]. Not really surprised. Given what happened last season. It took us a little bit to adjust, but it was mainly down to us and maybe a lack of quality in the final third. They are still a very good team with a lot of quality, regardless of the outside noise."
He added: "We are so used to it as players. I just tried to cause a ruckus. I just make it difficult for the defender. I read the flight of the ball and was quickest to react."
Farke disappointed not to win
Farke also spoke after the draw and admitted he was disappointed not to have won the game. "We are slightly disappointed it is just a point. Overall, I felt it was not necessary to be losing at half time but it is still Manchester United," he said.
"Second half, we got the equaliser, we should have kept up the dominance, too many strikes went over the crossbar but it was overall a solid performance. We should have won the game but we move on."
"We took it as a compliment that we have done many things right over the last month if we were seen as favourites against Manchester United, but we have earned this. We wanted to prove the comments right. We were the dominant side but we couldn't capitalise as we lacked quality in and around the box. It says a lot about how much respect we have earned. Overall, this is where we are at the moment and overall, it is a good place to be."
He concluded: "It is still difficult in this league to win points. You have to be clinical and be very, very effective but we have to keep going."
