Manchester United manager Michael Carrick admits it may sound "crazy" but says he is genuinely looking forward to Tuesday's Champions League clash with Roma at Old Trafford despite the team's dire run of form.
United have gone nine matches without a win in all competitions, their worst streak since the 1988-89 season, and have not gone ten games winless in a single campaign since 1977-78. The club sits 17th in the Premier League and, after defeats to Atletico Madrid and Como, have dropped to 21st in the Champions League table after three matches, with only the top 24 advancing.
Carrick, whose future is the subject of intense speculation ahead of the international break, viewed the game as an opportunity to change the narrative. "You might think I'm crazy with the results we've had and what's going on, but genuinely, I really can't wait for the game," he said. "I'm really looking forward to it. We want to make it a big night tomorrow."
The manager dismissed concerns about the commitment of his players, including defender Lisandro Martinez, who was sent off in the recent loss at Chelsea. "Perceptions are a funny thing. The dressing room is a good place. I don't question the commitment of the players, to the club and to me and to each other. We need to play better. We can make better decisions. But commitment's not a thing at all," Carrick added.
Midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, who returned from a four-match injury absence as a substitute at Chelsea, echoed the sentiment. The 21-year-old academy graduate, the longest-serving player in the squad, said: "I've been at this club for a long time and know there's always going to be ups and downs. It's never going to be plain sailing. Of course it's been a tough season. We've not had the results we've wanted, but I feel like we're one win away from changing that."
Historically, United have not been in the relegation zone after nine or more games since November 1986, during Sir Alex Ferguson's first two matches in charge. Their lowest position after at least nine games since then was 17th in 1989-90. Roma's only defeat this season came at home to Real Madrid in the Champions League last month, when they led 3-1 with seven minutes remaining.
