Manchester United boss Michael Carrick says he is looking forward to Tuesday night's Champions League clash with Roma at Old Trafford, despite a season of heavy disappointment so far. Asked about the match, he said: "You might think I'm crazy with the results we've had and what's going on, but genuinely, I really can't wait for the game. I'm really looking forward to it."
Pressure eases for European test
The pressure is off to a degree for this fixture, with little to lose and form that can only improve. No one expects United to win the Champions League this season or any year soon, making this a chance to ease the gloom around the club and secure a much-needed victory with a positive display.
The match also offers a chance to build confidence ahead of the weekend's league encounter with Aston Villa at home on Sunday afternoon, which is the fixture that really matters. United must beat Villa before the international break or it is curtains, club legend or not.
Calls to unleash the youth
Opinion suggests this should be an opportunity to give fresh, younger legs a chance, players who have not been wearied by recent weeks. There are calls to drop Lisandro Martinez after his sending-off against Chelsea, with Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro suggested as replacements. Martinez cannot play on Sunday due to a one-match ban.
Academy star Shea Lacey is touted to start after Amad Diallo missed a hat-full of chances against Chelsea. Harry Amass is suggested for left back given Luke Shaw's lengthy injury, while a Fletcher (Tyler or Jack or both) could feature in midfield alongside pacy winger Tynan Thompson. JJ Gabriel is unavailable, training on his own in Spain after not making the Champions League squad.
Happy memories against Roma
United host Roma for the first time since a 6-2 triumph in the Europa League in 2021, when Carrick served on the coaching staff under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. The current manager also netted twice against the same opponents in a 7-1 victory in a Champions League quarter-final in April 2007.
Carrick will likely rely on his experienced players to see off a side currently third in Serie A. If so, they must be harder to get through in defence and far more clinical up front. For the fans, any sort of win at the moment will do, even a defensively-minded one-nil.
