Farke backs Carrick as Manchester United criticism intensifies

Leeds United manager Daniel Farke has defended Michael Carrick, saying the Manchester United boss deserves more support as pressure builds before Sunday’s Premier League meeting at Elland Road.

Carrick’s position has come under scrutiny following Manchester United’s 2-0 Champions League defeat by Atletico Madrid in midweek. Their league form has also been disappointing, with United winning only one of their opening six Premier League matches.

The contrasting starts of the two clubs have increased the focus on the managers. Leeds have taken nine points from their first six matches and are seventh in the table, while Farke has been linked with a new contract at Elland Road.

Farke said Carrick should receive greater recognition for his work at Manchester United and for the job he previously did with Middlesbrough.

“When I think about Michael, we don’t have too many young British coaches and managers in the Premier League,” Farke told reporters.

“Right now we have someone, a really young, promising manager who has done an excellent job at Middlesbrough.”

The Leeds manager also praised Carrick for taking charge at Manchester United in difficult circumstances last season and helping to bring stability to the club.

Farke questioned why criticism had intensified so quickly, pointing out that only six league matches had been played. He acknowledged that Manchester United’s ambitions meant their results were being judged against a desire to challenge for the title, but said the reaction remained excessive.

“After six game days, when they didn’t have a horrendous start but, of course, by their perception they want to fight for the title, the criticism starts already. I don’t like it,” Farke said.

“If we have young, promising managers, let’s also look a bit after them, especially ones that have a British passport.”

Farke also underlined Carrick’s long service to Manchester United, first as a player and later as a coach. He said that record, together with Carrick’s decision to step into last season’s difficult situation, should be taken into account before judgements are made.

“Keep in mind what he has done for the club for many years as a player, what he has done last season in a very difficult situation where many people would also be a bit hesitant to step in and to help.

“He has done a top-class job.”