Carrick rejects Neville's 'pathetic' verdict and insists United can still have a big season

Michael Carrick refused to accept Gary Neville’s verdict that Manchester United’s second-half display at Craven Cottage was “absolutely pathetic”, insisting his side can still have a “big season” despite sitting 12th in the Premier League after a 1-1 draw with Fulham.

Matheus Cunha’s deflected shot rescued a point for United deep into stoppage time, but the result did little to silence critics. Neville, speaking as a pundit after the match, said: “I’ve watched Man United since the age of five. That’s the worst 15 minutes I’ve seen them play. Absolutely pathetic.”

Carrick, however, was measured in his response. “There’s still a big season ahead,” he said. “It’s a long season and this is part of the journey. I’m not playing it down — we wanted more points. I understand the frustration. But what bothers me is that we want better results.”

When asked directly whether his side had been too passive, Carrick rejected the characterisation. “I didn’t think we were. Football is a difficult game. We controlled a lot of the first half. It’s the Premier League and you will have spells where you don’t have it all your own way. To expect total dominance for the whole game, I don’t think anyone gets that in this league.”

The United manager acknowledged there is room for improvement but credited his players for maintaining belief. “We don’t think things are perfect by any means. We need to win football matches. The supporters were top-drawer again today and we have to give them something to keep shouting about. I think a point is the least we should take.”

The draw leaves United ten points adrift of Manchester City at the top of the table as they head into the international break. Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa, whose side moved off the bottom of the table at Tottenham’s expense, also attracted attention after suggesting referees “don’t like Manchester United to lose” in response to decisions made by official Peter Bankes — comments that could lead to an FA charge.