INEOS Reportedly Backs Carrick Despite United’s Poor Start

Manchester United have decided not to dismiss manager Michael Carrick despite a difficult start to the season, with reports indicating that INEOS continues to back him. United have five points from five Premier League matches and are 12th in the table, while a 3-2 defeat by Brighton has already ended their Carabao Cup campaign. The club’s reported support comes after Carrick’s side salvaged a 1-1 draw at Fulham on September 20 with Matheus Cunha’s late goal. The result followed a loss to Manchester City and the Brighton cup defeat. United’s only league win so far was against Ipswich, according to match accounts in the supplied reports. Reports citing people familiar with the club’s thinking say INEOS regards mitigating circumstances and misfortune as factors in the poor start and is not currently planning a managerial change. The decision has not been confirmed in an official club statement. One account also reported that director of football Jason Wilcox supports stability, while the same reporting said Carrick’s position could depend on results. United’s league position and points total are among the club’s weakest starts at this stage.