Michael Carrick says he is not counting down his final days as Manchester United boss. At his pre-match press conference on Monday, he was asked whether he had just two games left, against Roma and Aston Villa. "No, not at all," the 45-year-old said, according to AFP.
Pressure on Carrick has grown since Saturday's 2-0 defeat at Chelsea. That loss stretched United's winless run in all competitions to nine games. AFP said United last had a longer such run in 1984. BBC Sport called it their worst run since 1988-89. The Villa game on Sunday comes just before an international break. AFP and BBC Sport both said the break could give the club a chance to change manager.
Carrick admitted his mood might look odd. "You might think I'm crazy with the results we've had and what's going on, but I genuinely can't wait," he said. He added that he cannot predict the future, but that uncertainty does not change how the team prepares.
He also backed Lisandro Martinez, the centre-back sent off at Stamford Bridge. AFP noted that Martinez had earlier criticised club bosses over a lack of investment in the squad. Carrick said he had "no concerns" about the Argentine's commitment. He said the dressing room was in "a good place". The team must play better and make better decisions, he added.
The numbers are grim. United have seven points from nine Premier League games and sit 17th, one place above the relegation zone. In the Champions League, AFP puts them 20th and BBC Sport 21st. They have lost 4-1 at Como and also lost to Atletico Madrid. Only the top 24 teams go through from the league phase.
Midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, who sat next to Carrick, said United are "one win away" from turning things around. Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini warned against underestimating United. He said Roma will play "as if we're against United at the top of its form". According to BBC Sport, Roma's only defeat this season came at home to Real Madrid.
Carrick has fond memories of Roma. He scored twice in United's 7-1 Champions League quarter-final win over the Italians in 2007. He called it "a magical night".