Carrick savours Manchester United chance following dramatic Arsenal victory

Michael Carrick encouraged Manchester United to capitalise on the impressive beginning of his temporary tenure after Matheus Cunha's powerful shot clinched a surprising 3-2 triumph over Premier League frontrunners Arsenal.

Carrick was appointed until the season's conclusion following Ruben Amorim's removal on January 5.

The ex-United midfielder eagerly seized the opportunity to come back to Old Trafford after his dismissal from second-division Middlesbrough in June.

United chose a temporary manager to allow time for a thorough hunt for a long-term replacement for Amorim.

However, co-owner Jim Ratcliffe and his team of consultants in the United leadership may have discovered the answer with their selection of Carrick.

He has energised United into adopting a much more dynamic style than the cautious approach seen under Amorim, achieving a 2-0 success against Manchester City in his debut match before damaging Arsenal's championship aspirations with a convincing victory in north London.

United have climbed to fourth in the Premier League and Carrick commended the players for embracing his strategic instructions.

"The lads have been superb at embracing the ideas, eager to implement them and committing fully. I believe in the guidance we provide and our conduct. I hold faith in them and aim to demonstrate it," Carrick remarked.

"It is less about the words, it is straightforward for me to instruct the players or for the team to discuss a match, but instilling that genuine conviction.

"You must convey that assurance and trust throughout and they certainly possess it, so we must maintain it."

He understands the sentiment

Carrick has abandoned Amorim's favoured three-at-the-back setup in favour of a change that enables United to maintain better equilibrium.

The 44-year-olds choice to position defender Patrick Dorgu in a forward-thinking offensive position has proven effective with strikes against City and Arsenal.

Dorgu's effort in the second half at the Emirates Stadium curled into the upper corner to give United a 2-1 advantage.

Lisandro Martinez's unfortunate own goal had provided Arsenal with an early lead before Bryan Mbeumo's levelling strike.

Mikel Merino appeared set to earn a draw for Arsenal with his late equaliser, yet Brazilian attacker Cunha rifled in from 20 yards during the 87th minute.

"I feel we grasped the game's rhythm. Occasionally we faced pressure and had to defend resiliently. We also sought to dominate," Carrick commented.

"The goals were outstanding, much of the play was solid and we posed threats at key moments. It was a display encompassing various elements."

Cunha swiftly highlighted the contrast between Amorim's dismal period and Carrick's positive influence.

"He understands the emotions, having played here for numerous years. He comprehends the Manchester atmosphere, the United ethos. He knows what the supporters desire," Cunha stated.

"He endeavours to demonstrate it in every instance, encouraging us to grasp the situations and noting 'we are all pitted against us', which makes us feel more united."

Carrick, who enjoyed 12 fruitful years as a United player, replied to Cunha's praise by confessing he is cherishing his unforeseen role.

"I have been here for under two weeks and I am eager to succeed, enhance the squad and aim for the highest possible finish," he expressed.

"Experiencing days like this and the previous one fuels ambition and we intend to continue developing this momentum in the weeks ahead."