England international Michael Carrick has issued a rallying cry to the Manchester United supporters by saying that the players will not allow the club’s season to derail after a 2-1 defeat against Arsenal in the FA Cup.
The English FA Cup was seen as the last hope for a trophy in Louis van Gaal’s first season at the club. After having not suffered a defeat against Arsenal at Old Trafford since 2006 a United were feeling confident of progressing to the semifinals. It would have given them a trip to Wembley. However, the Red Devils not only suffered a defeat that one of their former players – Danny Welbeck – also scored against them.
Carrick was brought on in the second half has replacement for Ander Herrera, who failed to make any impact in the game. Wayne Rooney had provided the equaliser for United after they were trailing through goal from defender Nacho Monreal. However, the second-half goal from Welbeck against his former club sealed the victory for the gunners, who are the defending champions. Now, United are left with the sole ambition of finishing in the top four. Many have suggested that the lack of motivation may see United’s season crumble from here on.
"We get on with it, we do what we know best. We train hard and stick together. We can't look back, we've got to move on and look to the next game, focus on that and be positive. Every game from now to the end of the season is huge, particularly against teams that are in and around you [in the league table], and we've got a few of those games coming up. We'll be ready for Sunday," said Carrick. After missing a major part of the first half, the 33-year-old has featured in 14 matches this season.