Manchester United held to a 1-1 draw by Fulham as Carrick praises late response
Manchester United came away from Craven Cottage with a point after a late equaliser secured a 1-1 draw against Fulham.
The result followed a match in which United created several opportunities but were unable to convert enough of them. Bruno Fernandes hit the woodwork, while Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno produced several important saves.
Fulham eventually moved ahead in the second half after an own goal involving Lisandro Martinez. United continued to push forward, however, and were rewarded late in the game when Matheus Cunha's effort found the net after taking a deflection.
The result left Carrick disappointed that his side had not collected all three points, but he said there were positive aspects to take from the performance.
United's late response
Carrick highlighted the players' reaction after falling behind as one of the main positives from the match.
The manager said the team continued to believe in its approach and remained patient while searching for an equaliser. The late goal gave United something to take from a match they had hoped to win.
He also acknowledged that there are areas that still need improvement, particularly after a difficult run of results.
Energy and determination
Questions were also raised about United's energy levels during the match.
Carrick said he was satisfied with the way the team finished the game, arguing that the players showed plenty of intensity while pushing for an equaliser.
The manager said the final stages demonstrated the players' willingness to keep fighting even when the result was not going their way.
Supporters' reaction
Carrick also addressed the reaction from some supporters when Kobbie Mainoo was substituted.
He explained that Mainoo had played well but the coaching staff believed a change was necessary as United searched for a goal.
Carrick said he had spoken with Mainoo after the match and praised the midfielder's team-first attitude.
The manager also thanked the travelling supporters for continuing to back the players throughout the match.
Frustration among supporters
Carrick acknowledged that supporters are naturally frustrated when results do not meet expectations.
However, he stressed that there is still a long season ahead and that difficult periods can provide opportunities for a team to learn and develop.
He said the players must continue working together and focus on improving rather than allowing recent results to affect their confidence.
Benjamin Šeško update
Carrick was also asked about Benjamin Šeško after the striker missed the Fulham match.
The manager said Šeško had experienced pain following the previous game and was still being assessed.
Carrick confirmed that the striker was not ready to play against Fulham and said there was no further update available at the time.
United will now look to use the international break to recover, assess their squad and prepare for their upcoming fixtures.
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