Carrick frustrated by Man Utd's lack of sharpness in West Ham draw

Michael Carrick confessed to feeling irritation regarding Manchester United's absence of incisiveness during their 1-1 stalemate with lower-ranked West Ham on Tuesday.

Carrick's squad operated considerably short of their peak performance across extended stretches in east London, finding themselves behind after Tomas Soucek's effort in the 50th minute.

Manchester United required Benjamin Sesko's leveller right at the end of added time to sidestep the initial loss in Carrick's five-game stint as temporary boss.

Even though United held onto fourth position in the Premier League courtesy of Sesko's thrilling equaliser, Carrick acknowledged a shortage of fluid teamwork in the attacking zone from his players. 

"We felt somewhat let down and clearly not performing at our highest level. Moments such as these test your resolve to push forward. I am rather annoyed about it," he commented.

"Coming here is always challenging and we lacked that precision to unlock the puzzle. Strong team morale once more and we will accept the draw and progress.

"Considering our current situation and the limited time we have gelled as a unit, ultimately we must grab this point. 

"It was hard won and we managed to secure it. We can draw some encouragement from the outcome."

Sesko's fifth strike across his previous six outings sustained his upward trajectory following a dismal beginning to his debut campaign at United after transferring from Leipzig.

"Superb conclusion. He has repeated the feat. It matters a lot. Such a fine strike. Thrilled for him. Yet another crucial contribution and positive progress," Carrick remarked.

Manchester United's last-gasp reprieve kept West Ham mired in the drop zone.

Carrick wishes his old team can ultimately rise above the lower ranks.

"I truly hope they avoid relegation," he stated. "It played a major role in my career and I cherish fond recollections here, so fingers crossed they remain in the division."