Harry Maguire singled out Michael Carrick for letting the performances do the talking as Manchester United moved one step closer to a place in the Champions League with a 2-1 win against Brentford.
United strengthened their grip on a top-four spot, increasing their lead in the race to 11 points with an entertaining victory at Old Trafford. Casemiro netted an early opener, and Benjamin Sesko ensured United were two goals to the good before half-time, and Mathias Jensen’s last-gasp effort could not derail them in a nervous final few minutes.
Under Carrick, United have shot up into third spot in the Premier League with 29 points from 13 games, more than any other team in that period. Maguire attributed United’s improved form and results to the interim boss, stating confidence is high, and United are now efficient in both penalty areas.
“We’re not there yet in terms of the performance levels, but we’re starting to grind out results like this. We are winning the big games and the tight games,” said Maguire. “It’s crucial, at this stage of the season, for the boys to fight and scrap for it. We did that and I’m pleased,” added Carrick.
Bruno Fernandes continued his impressive streak of form for United, notching another assist, which now puts him just one shy of the all-time Premier League record for a single season. With 11 points and with eight games to play, United appear to be very strong contenders for a return to European football’s elite.
