- Manchester United draw 0-0 vs Sunderland
- Michael Carrick insists everyone can contribute
- Players’ futures are uncertain
Michael Carrick insisted that players who came into the starting lineup in Manchester United’s 0-0 draw against Sunderland aren’t playing for their futures. The Red Devils came away from the Stadium of Light with a point.
United were second best for large portions of a forgettable game. Matheus Cunha came closest late on but failed to make the most of a golden opportunity.
Carrick made five changes to the team that beat Liverpool 3-2 last Sunday. Most of them failed to convince on Wearside.
‘Could Have Been a Bit Better’ – Carrick Reacts
Joshua Zirkzee came in for the injured Benjamin Sesko while Amad started ahead of Bryan Mbeumo on the right. In midfield, Casemiro missed the game through injury and Mason Mount instead partnered Kobbie Mainoo.
Noussair Mazraoui started at right-back, allowing Diogo Dalot to drop to the bench. Carrick opted to start the returning Lisandro Martinez and ‘harshly’ dropped Ayden Heaven.
It could be argued that Mazraoui was the only to enjoy a solid outing against Sunderland. Even Martinez wasn’t at his usual best up against Brian Brobbey who hit the post.
Mount, Zirkzee and Amad put in dissapointing displays that will only further raise doubts over their futures at the club. There are three players whose names have been in the rumour mill as of late.
Carrick downplayed suggestions they are under pressure to impress or risk being sold this summer. He said after the draw:
“They’re not on trial. As a team we could have been a bit better but we know what the boys can do. Everyone has contributed in such a good way, I’m pleased with the overall connection, communication and willingness to work for each other today.”
United’s draw saw them miss out on a fifth win in a row and as a result leaves them on 65 points from 36 games. They sit third, six points above Liverpool with two games left.
Mount and Zirkzee Should Worry
While Amad is struggling, the Ivorian winger has done enough this season to deserve to stay put this summer. The same can’t be said for Mount and Zirkzee, who continue to stutter and disappoint.
Zirkzee didn’t last the full 90 minutes and managed just one shot during his time on the pitch. He offered little threat up top, and it’s vital that Sesko has a reliable backup who can help United on the goalscoring front.
Mount has endured a disastrous spell with the Reds since arriving from Chelsea in the summer of 2023. Constant injury issues have prevented him from having a consistent run of games.
