Michael Carrick has explained the decision to substitute Kobbie Mainoo during Manchester United's 1-1 draw at Fulham, a move that was met with boos from the travelling supporters. The United manager said the midfielder understood the reasoning behind the change and took it well.
Match events at Craven Cottage
Fulham were close to securing their first win of the season when Lisandro Martinez scored an own goal in the 63rd minute. However, Matheus Cunha equalised for United in the 89th minute with a deflected effort that left goalkeeper Bernd Leno with no chance.
The match was described as odd, with both teams creating numerous chances but also playing at a leisurely pace for large periods. Gary Neville called United's lack of intensity a 'disgrace', singling out a 15-minute spell as the worst he had ever seen from a Red Devils team, though Carrick disagreed with that assessment.
Substitution decision and reaction
With 10 minutes remaining, Carrick brought on Mason Mount for Mainoo, who was arguably United's best player on the night. The substitution drew boos from the fans, but Carrick remained unfazed.
'There's always going to be certain reactions when you're making changes,' Carrick said. 'I think Kobbie played well, to be honest, so it was just more of at that stage of the game we're trying to make something happen and Kobbie understands that. He's fine, I spoke to him after the game, he's absolutely fine. He's all about the team and what's best.'
He added: 'It's just one of them things. I understand at times when chasing the game everyone's a little bit emotional, the supporters are, as well they should be, they're desperate for us to do the right thing. But I don't take any negatives or offence to it.'
Carrick's view on the performance and season start
Carrick praised the supporters for their backing throughout the match. 'The supporters were unbelievable today, I have to say, all the way through, and stuck with the boys and supported the boys. At least we've given them something small at the end to take from it, and I'm sure there's more to come.'
Manchester United have had a poor start to the season, picking up just five points from games against Hull City, Ipswich Town, Everton, Manchester City and Fulham. Carrick said he was 'disappointed' with the latest draw but remained optimistic.
'There are parts we can do better. The way we responded to going down was really pleasing, the boys were really positive and played with good purpose. We've got something the supporters can take from the game. They were fantastic again today and kept pushing the boys.'
'I'm convinced we'll have a good season. We're having a spell that feels bigger than it actually is to the outside. We'll get back to winning football matches and we'll be alright.'
United return from the international break with a match against rock-bottom Tottenham on October 10.
