Manchester United dropped points against Sunderland on Saturday as one thing became very clear for Michael Carrick.
There was always a concern that Manchester United’s form would tail off after achieving the goal of Champions League football qualification, and that came to pass against Sunderland.
Manchester United drew 0-0 with the Black Cats in a dull 90 minutes at the Stadium of Light. The game saw Michael Carrick select a heavily rotated side as he made five changes, and it showed.
This saw two points dropped as United failed to confirm third place just yet, but in the long-term this result could prove important for Carrick.
What is your MESSAGE to Michael Carrick after Man Utd’s draw with Sunderland?
Michael Carrick will benefit from Manchester United’s draw to Sunderland
Dropping points won’t be what Carrick wanted against Sunderland, considering a win would have put the Red Devils eight points clear in third. However, for Carrick’s future, this draw and performance was important.
Carrick made five changes to the team that beat Liverpool, and the drop-off was evident, with United’s shocking squad depth costing the Red Devils two points.
This only strengthens Carrick’s position, as he is working miracles with what he has right now in the United squad, which needs a lot of work this summer.
The performance from United’s fringe players proved that none are good enough, and it explains why Carrick hasn’t used the squad depth more during this season.
Carrick has often been criticised for not using the bench, but these players have shown why he didn’t trust them.
United have five or six players who simply aren’t good enough to be playing a substantial role next season, and Carrick has almost proved this by how they all failed him at the Stadium of Light.
Now this is clear, Ineos know what needs to happen.
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United now have clear list of players who should be sold
Carrick made a lot of changes against Sunderland, probably more than he should have, but by doing so, he’s highlighted that United don’t have a good squad.
The fringe players are a big problem, and with these names, there is no way United can challenge on all fronts next season.
Joshua Zirkzee is one player who has to leave, while Manuel Ugarte, Mason Mount, Noussair Mazraoui, and even Lisandro Martinez potentially are also either not good enough or should be cashed in on this summer.
By axing these players, United could then promote the most talented academy players before adding five signings at least, with funds raised potentially opening the door to further arrivals.
United need to get ruthless.
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