Michael Carrick downplayed fears that Manchester United are in a relegation battle following a remarkable 4-4 draw with Aston Villa in the Premier League.
Carrick Disappointed Despite Comeback
Speaking after the match, Carrick said: 'I'm disappointed that we haven't won the game. We looked the better team for long parts of it and we're making it difficult for ourselves with the goals that we're giving away.'
'We're not just giving away one, it's two in succession that put us in such a difficult position. We did it the other night, we did it again today and have come back into the game and had a lot of the game, could have won it at the end.'
'So I'm disappointed we haven't won the game. It's just moments that we need to tighten up on. Individual moments where we're giving teams goals that we don't normally get.'
Defensive Concerns
Carrick acknowledged the recurring defensive issues, stating: 'If we tighten up that, there's a lot of good in that performance. I thought we should have won the game. But conceding the goals we are is not helping us at all.'
'We have got to tighten up, it's pretty obvious to say that. It's giving us too much to do in games. But I thought we did a lot and feel that we should have won the game.'
Relegation Battle Question
Asked whether he feels Manchester United are in a relegation battle, Carrick added: 'We're in November. I don't like this situation or the results but we can definitely do something about it.'
Keane's Criticism
Responding to Carrick's post-match interview, former Manchester United captain Roy Keane said: 'It's obviously difficult for the manager. He's under pressure, no doubt.'
'He talks a lot but doesn't say much. I don't know if that's a tactic. Like a politician. He keeps saying we need to tighten up and there's things we need to work on.'
'But they better get moving on that. It's the worst start in how many years, all these stats aren't very good. If you keep giving up goals and chances, it's just going to continue.'
'What are we expecting to change over the next few weeks and months? What are they working on? They need to do a lot better than that.'
