Add as preferred source on Google
Paul Scholes has hit out at Michael Carrick, but Manchester United won’t be concerned by the loss to Newcastle. This season was never about winning every game.
After Manchester United lost 2-1 against Newcastle on Wednesday night, Paul Scholes didn’t hesitate to send a message regarding Michael Carrick.
Scholes slammed Carrick’s side, which hasn’t landed well within the fanbase, as the former United midfielder once again acts to the detriment of the club.
But Scholes is completely wrong, not only in making the statement but also relating to what he said.
After a first defeat, how are you feeling about Michael Carrick for the Man Utd job permanently?
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images 
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
United were pretty terrible against Newcastle, struggling to cope with the sharpness and desire that the home side showed, given it is arguably the biggest game of their campaign.
Carrick made mistakes in the loss; however, there is no need to begin overreacting like Scholes has, because Carrick is doing exactly what was asked of him.
When appointed back in January, Ineos set Carrick a Champions League target, something that is still well within United’s own hands, facing the three main rivals in the coming six games.
Victory in four of the next six would probably be enough to secure a top-five place; therefore, seeing Carrick achieve his target and something that seemed impossible two months ago.
Carrick was only appointed as interim, not with a view to being permanent, and not to win every game this season, so criticism for six wins in eight is ridiculous.
United are in a much better place now compared to pre-Carrick, and if he secures his target, then he might yet deserve a permanent chance.
Scholes likely knows this, considering he deleted his story after backlash. But ultimately, it comes across as jealousy, and that club legends don’t want Carrick to succeed.
What is your MESSAGE to Michael Carrick after his first defeat as Man Utd boss?
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Carrick has a lot of questions to answer in order to make himself the man appointed on a permanent basis this summer.
However, should Carrick secure Champions League football, it would be hard to deny him. The chances of this happening remain strong despite losing to Newcastle, as the latest Opta predictions showcase.
The model sees United currently predicted to finish fourth on 64 points, just behind Aston Villa, with the chance of Champions League football being 55.53%.
Arsenal – 100%City – 99.91%Villa – 58.24%United – 55.53%Liverpool – 40.35Chelsea – 41.40%
This shows United are in the driving seat to finish as Champions League qualifiers, which is all Carrick needs to do this season. He’s doing a brilliant job, and criticism is misplaced.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox