Leeds v Man Utd takes Michael Carrick across the Pennines on Sunday. The Manchester United head coach says all the senses come alive at Elland Road. Carrick spoke to MUTV’s Mark Sullivan in his pre-match interview at Carrington. He expects a severe test against a Leeds side he rates highly. He is also excited to experience Leeds v Man Utd from the United dugout for the first time.
“[I’m expecting] a very tough game,” Carrick said. “I think Daniel’s done a really good job, I have to say, for a long period of time. They had a sticky start in there, but since they changed things a little bit at the start last season, they’ve gone really consistent. A dangerous team, played really well at Arsenal again last week and maybe a bit unlucky not to take anything from the game. It’s a special game, going to Elland Road. It’s one definitely to look forward to, it’s where it brings everything out in you. All the senses are alive, the noise, the atmosphere, the intensity, everything’s there, so we look forward to it.”
Carrick relishes Leeds v Man Utd occasion
Carrick’s only previous Leeds v Man Utd trip came as a player. He was part of Sir Alex Ferguson’s side that won a League Cup tie 3-0 there in 2011. This time, however, he arrives needing a result. United took one point from the two meetings with Daniel Farke’s team last season. Carrick wants a return to winning ways in the Premier League.
“[I’m looking forward to it] immensely,” he added. “The boys have trained and are in really good spirits. They’re feeling positive and the support is growing over there [at Leeds]. It’s a big one for them and we know that. We’ll go over there together and push for everything we can get and hopefully get the right result.”
United team news for the Elland Road trip
On selection for Leeds v Man Utd, Lisandro Martinez is available after the club drew a line under his post-Atletico comments. Luke Shaw and Kobbie Mainoo will be assessed before a decision is made. Benjamin Sesko remains a little further away as checks on his injury continue. Meanwhile, Patrick Dorgu and Noussair Mazraoui have not featured since the international break. Manuel Ugarte continues his recovery from knee surgery. Leny Yoro can play on Sunday despite a European suspension.
Kick-off at Elland Road is at 2pm on Sunday, with Leeds v Man Utd live on Sky Sports. MUTV and the Match Centre on ManUtd.com will carry build-up, team news, live radio commentary and reaction throughout the afternoon. Carrick had already struck a defiant tone on Friday, when he told reporters that certain games are different.
