Michael Carrick has confirmed he has held conversations with Manchester United's hierarchy about the team's poor run of results, insisting he is "100 per cent" confident he can turn things around.
The manager's future was thrown into doubt after United lost 4-1 to Como in the Champions League on Wednesday, a result that extended the club's winless run to seven games. United have made their worst start to a Premier League season for 40 years, winning just two of 11 games across all competitions.
Board talks and managerial speculation
Speaking at Carrington on Friday, Carrick confirmed discussions have taken place with the club's decision-makers. "We've spoken," he said. "There are always conversations going on. It's obvious how we're all feeling. The responsibility for me to be in this position is to lead, it's my responsibility for whatever goes on on the pitch. I'll hold the umbrella for me to stay wet and for others to stay dry."
The club's hierarchy are reportedly considering alternatives, with Eddie Howe, Unai Emery, Antonio Conte and Julian Nagelsmann all mentioned. Former Newcastle manager Howe, who left the Magpies over the summer, is thought to be Jason Wilcox's preferred choice.
Carrick's response to pressure
When asked if he was confident of turning results around, Carrick replied: "Yeah, yeah, 100%, yeah." He admitted the situation hurts but vowed to fight on. "It hurts an awful lot, but it doesn't stop me," he said. "That hurt is pure motivation to want more, expect more, and work for more to get us going in that different direction."
United face Bournemouth on Sunday afternoon. The Cherries were winless in the Premier League until last weekend, when they beat Sunderland, and have also secured wins against Sturm Graz and AC Milan in the Europa League over the last eight days.
Looking ahead to Bournemouth
Carrick stressed the need for improvement ahead of the match. "We want more," he said. "It feels like it can be a long way away but it doesn't take much to flip that. We have a very tough game on Sunday. It does not become an easy game. If you don't [feel like me], this isn't the right place for you."
