Carrick beware: Man United face ultimate midfield test against undroppable Everton star
Manchester United will travel to the Hill Dickinson Stadium to face Everton in the Premier League on Monday evening.
The Red Devils have rediscovered their edge since caretaker boss Michael Carrick took charge, stringing together an unbeaten run that has reignited belief.
That resurgence has propelled United into fourth place, firmly aligning them with their ambition of securing a coveted UEFA Champions League berth.
Yet with Chelsea and Liverpool lurking ominously behind, there is no margin for error in the race for Europe.
Carrick knows anything less than victory could drain momentum and dent confidence at Old Trafford.
One Everton player who has been in starring form this season is James Garner.
Garner left United for Everton in a £15 million deal in the summer of 2022.
The midfielder rose through the ranks at United and made his first-team debut at the age of 17.
He was sent on multiple loan spells, including his superb loan stint with Nottingham Forest when he helped the club back into the English top flight after winning the Sky Bet Championship play-off final.
Under the experienced guidance of David Moyes, Garner has matured into an undroppable presence at the heart of Everton’s midfield.
The England youth international has started in each of the 26 games this season.
Even playing primarily as a defensive midfielder, the 24-year-old has two goals and three assists to his name.
Beyond the statistics, he has refined his defensive instincts, timing tackles expertly while enhancing his range and tempo in distribution.
If United want to suffocate Everton, they must deny Garner the time and space that allow him to dictate proceedings.
Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo will play a key role in the midfield battle that could define the fate of this encounter.
Stats from Fotmob.com
Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .