Michael Carrick has admitted that Marcus Rashford's return to the Manchester United starting line-up has eased the need for last-minute business in the transfer window.
Carrick handed Rashford his first United start in 626 days, and although the 28-year-old England attacker did not score in the 5-2 win over Ipswich at Old Trafford, he impressed his manager.
Rashford's return influences transfer policy
Rashford's comeback has clearly influenced United's transfer window policy. With the window close approaching, Carrick said: “I think the situation that we're in, I think the business that we've managed to do, I'm pleased with.
“I think we're a better group, a better squad, potentially a better team, you know. Adding Marcus into that feels like a new signing. So, in that respect, we're quite happy.”
However, Carrick did not rule out any eleventh-hour deals. He added: “It's always difficult to say, to be honest, when there's so little time left. I think the situation that we're in. We're always open to if there's something else to be able to add, so I wouldn't shut that down, but as it stands, we'll have to wait and see.”
Carrick praises Rashford and Mainoo
Rashford's comeback, after loan spells at Aston Villa and Barcelona, has impressed Carrick, who has always been a fan. The United boss said: “I've known him for a while, and then he wasn't here when I've come back, and now he is. So I think he's making the most of that for us and for him as well - to have the opportunity to be here. He's one of our own.
“He's living his dream, playing here now and trying to be successful and win. There are players that have come back sometimes or players that maybe were going to leave, who didn't leave. It's always about what you do next and what your intentions are. He's been fantastic since he came back, I have to say, and it was great to see him on the pitch today for us.”
Carrick also had special praise for Kobbie Mainoo, who did not see a minute's action at the World Cup but was outstanding for United against Ipswich. Carrick said: “I thought Kobbie was pretty much all-around very, very good for a first start back. We kind of managed him a little bit, and we've got good midfielders, so it's about trying to make the best of the combinations.
“I understand Bruno will get a lot of credit today, and he deserves that as well, but I thought Kobbie was immense in the middle of the pitch for us and underpinned the performance of the team.”
