Michael Carrick interrupted a Manchester United training session in the lead-up to their stunning 3-2 win over Arsenal, according to former teammate Wayne Rooney. Carrick, who took over as interim manager following Ruben Amorim's dismissal, has revitalised the squad with two consecutive wins against top opposition.
Rooney disclosed on Match of the Day that Carrick told him the training was so impressive he had to stop it. "He said he actually had to stop training because it was that good," Rooney explained. "He wanted to bottle it up and make sure they had that performance for the game."
United became the first side to beat Arsenal at the Emirates this season, with goals from Bryan Mbeumo, Patrick Dorgu and Matheus Cunha. Carrick abandoned the 3-4-2-1 formation in favour of a 4-2-3-1 system, which has immediately paid dividends after a difficult start to the campaign.
Rooney praised Carrick's calm approach and emphasis on fundamentals. "He brings a level of calmness which hasn't been there for a while," Rooney said. "He's brought the basics back – players working hard, getting behind the ball, running for each other. He's given belief into those players."
Rooney added that if results continue, there will be pressure on the United board to appoint Carrick permanently. "Michael Carrick has got an opportunity to show everyone he's capable," he said. "What we've seen is that he's more than capable of doing it."
