Maguire backs Carrick after Manchester United lose 3-0

Manchester United’s 3-0 Premier League defeat by Bournemouth at Old Trafford on October 25 intensified scrutiny of manager Michael Carrick, but defender Harry Maguire said the players remained behind him and needed to improve their performances. Maguire said United were not playing well enough as individuals and described a lack of confidence in the squad. He said players had to take responsibility and that something needed to change quickly, while stressing that the team could still have a good season. Bournemouth scored through Rayan, Marcus Tavernier and Evanilson. Maguire said United had conceded from a set piece for the opening goal, then made a mistake before going 2-0 down by halftime. He said the team had failed to respond and needed to do the basics better. Maguire also credited Carrick with turning the team’s fortunes around the previous season and securing Champions League football. His public backing came as the defeat added to pressure on the manager, whose future was not settled in the post-match comments reported after the game. Carrick said he felt responsible for the situation and that the players were hurting after the loss. He described the afternoon as...