Roy Keane praised Manchester United’s performances in their last two games following the Red Devils’ 3-2 victory over Arsenal on Sunday night.
It was a super Sunday for Michael Carrick and his Manchester United side as the interim boss orchestrated a 3-2 victory over the league leaders, who were unbeaten at the Emirates this season until United’s visit.
It was an unchanged side fielded by Carrick in his second game in charge as interim boss, a decision that was likely a no-brainer for the coach who witnessed the same team dismantle Manchester City just eight days before. However, the hosts struck first through an uncharacteristic own goal from Lisandro Martínez.
Bryan Mbeumo ensured the first half ended level as he found the back of the net in the 37th minute, and this momentum carried over to the second period, when Patrick Dorgu scored a wonder-goal just five minutes into the half.
It was Arsenal’s turn to equalise when Mikel Merino poked home a goal-mouth scramble following another Arsenal corner, and it seemed the Gunners were going to go on to take the win. However, Matheus Cunha sent the away fans into raptures when the Brazilian scored another long-range strike in the 87th minute, ultimately securing United all three points.
Roy Keane praises recent performances under Carrick
Following United’s victory, Roy Keane heaped praise on both the players and the interim manager, Michael Carrick. Keane has been vocal with his opinion on the appointment of Carrick, but it seems the legendary midfielder has been left with egg on his face.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Keane said, “Considering where United are, and the state they’ve been in, they now have a bit of a swagger and calmness to their play. They got help with the first goal, but in the second half had two brilliant strikes.”
“Players off the bench had a big influence, you see the United fans in the corner, a bit like the old days, and there is a nice vibe about the team.”
“Obviously, Carrick has done really well, two brilliant results, and two brilliant performances with a bit of fighting spirit and also, real quality.”
Keane is not the only person heaping praise on the squad, with the United fanbase showing their appreciation for the players and interim boss through their ever-present away support. United now sit in fourth place in the Premier League, thrusting them into potential Champions League qualification.
What are the realistic expectations for the rest of United’s season
Manchester United’s victories over Man City and Arsenal have left fans ecstatic and full of hope compared to this time a month ago, when Champions League qualification seemed unattainable. Michael Carrick has transformed the side in a short amount of time, but the most important games are still to be played.
The Red Devils are notorious for turning up when it matters; the vital games for the rest of the season will be the matches they are expected to win. If Carrick can improve the squad’s mentality when they aren’t facing a side fighting at the top of the table, there is no reason they cannot finish in the top four.
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Sunday’s victory could make fans think that Carrick is the second coming of Sir Alex Ferguson. However, there are still underlying problems at the club and if the former United stalwart can lead his team back into the Champions League, a permanent appointment seems inevitable.
Carrick is temporarily at the wheel, and for United fans, it does feel good, but I’m sure his head will be solely focused on the upcoming game against Fulham at Old Trafford and hoping he can continue his 100% victory record in his second spell as interim boss.
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