Senne Lammens has outlined the message Michael Carrick delivered to the Manchester United squad on his first day in charge and how effective it has proved to be. The Belgian goalkeeper, currently on international duty, praised Carrick's clarity and simplicity in a recent interview.
United have lost only one game under Carrick, winning seven and drawing two. Their form has lifted them into third place on 55 points, one ahead of fourth-placed Aston Villa, representing a dramatic turnaround from earlier in the season when former manager Ruben Amorim left them seventh upon his departure in January.
Lammens explained to The Athletic: "The first thing, from the first day, was his ability to make everything quite clear and present a direct message. He didn't make it too difficult for us or too complicated. Sometimes, managers make a plan too complicated, and then some players don't buy in and it's difficult to get on the same level for everyone. But from the first game, it was quite clear what he wanted."
The shot-stopper also noted that Carrick instilled confidence and stability from the back, helping United avoid conceding early goals. "Michael has given us a lot of confidence and a lot of stability from the back," Lammens added. "At the beginning of the season, there were a couple of players injured and a couple of defenders coming in and going out. It was difficult to get the rhythm. The last couple of games have been better."
United have conceded only 11 goals in nine games under Carrick. They return to action on Monday, April 13, hosting Leeds United at Old Trafford before a trip to Chelsea.
