Michael Carrick hails ‘fantastic’ Kobbie Mainoo after Man United’s demolition of Ipswich Town

Michael Carrick has praised Kobbie Mainoo’s “immense” performance after Manchester United thrashed Ipswich Town 5-2 at Old Trafford.

While Bruno Fernandes stole the headlines with a match-winning hat-trick, Carrick was equally impressed by Mainoo’s commanding display in the middle of the park.

The academy graduate was handed his first start of the season and responded with an assured performance, underlining his importance to United’s midfield options.

Carrick was particularly pleased to see Mainoo return to Old Trafford and play with confidence after being limited for game time.

“I thought he was fantastic today, Kobbie. It was nice for him to be home again and playing here with that confidence. It was his first start,” Carrick told MUTV.

Carrick delighted with midfield options

Mainoo’s performance came at a time when Carrick has been carefully managing his squad following the World Cup, with several players returning with different levels of match fitness.

The United boss acknowledged the challenge of balancing playing time across his midfield options but believes Mainoo’s display demonstrated the quality available to him.

“Some of the boys have been away and had different levels of football at the World Cup; they’ve played different minutes, so we’ve had to manage that over the last couple of weeks,” he said.

Mainoo’s influence helped United control the game as they produced an emphatic attacking display to secure a convincing victory.

Mainoo makes his case

For Carrick, the midfielder’s performance was another reminder of what he can offer when given the opportunity to start.

“To put in that performance today shows what Kobbie can do. We’re fortunate enough to have a really good midfield unit, and we can call upon different players at different times. I was really happy with the way he played today.”

With competition for places intensifying, Mainoo’s showing could strengthen his case for more regular involvement as United continue their campaign.