Carrick: United in Red-Hot Form, Driven by 2009 Final Pain
Carrick: United in Red-Hot Form, Driven by 2009 Final Pain

Michael Carrick has declared Manchester United are hitting red-hot form as they approach a crucial run of fixtures. The midfielder believes the team's recent performances signal a return to their best ahead of a pivotal week.

United travel to Arsenal on Sunday needing a win to move within touching distance of a record 19th league title. The match is followed by the Champions League semi-final second leg against Schalke and a clash with Chelsea.

Carrick, 29, admitted the pain of being swept aside by Barcelona in the 2009 Champions League final is driving the squad forward. 'The 2009 final was a massive chance to win the Champions League two years running. We missed out but we want to be there again,' he said.

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The midfielder urged caution despite the team's momentum. 'We’re looking good but we won’t get ahead of ourselves. We have to carry it through to the end,' he added.

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