Gary Neville has admitted that Michael Carrick's decision to revert to Ruben Amorim's back three system during Manchester United's 2-1 win over Brentford was a 'cheeky' but ultimately successful move. The Red Devils secured three points on Monday night, tightening their grip on a Champions League place, with goals from Casemiro and Benjamin Sesko.
In the closing stages, with Brentford pushing for an equaliser after Mathias Jensen scored in the 87th minute, Carrick introduced Leny Yoro for Luke Shaw to form a back three alongside Harry Maguire and Ayden Heaven. This system, which had been unpopular under Amorim, helped United see out the game.
Speaking on his podcast, Neville said: 'It was a really pragmatic safe way. We've won the game already, Brentford look quite dangerous... Little bit cheeky going to Ruben Amorim's system, the 5-2-3, but these players have played that a lot this season and they know it and I think the extra player at the back paid off.'
Carrick, who took charge in January, has largely moved away from Amorim's tactics, playing players in more natural positions. Despite United's unexpected Champions League push, Carrick remained measured, stating: 'The Champions League is one thing but it’s not something that we should be over-celebrating either. We want to be challenging higher up the league and get more points.'
