Carrick blown away by two 'incredible' Man Utd stars who won nine duels vs Chelsea
Manchester United defeated Chelsea 1-0 in the Premier League at Stamford Bridge on Saturday evening.
The decisive moment arrived just before half-time, when Matheus Cunha struck clinically after being brilliantly set up by Bruno Fernandes.
It was all about the result for United, as Ayden Heaven was the only recognised senior centre-back available following a late injury to Leny Yoro.
Noussair Mazraoui was forced into an unfamiliar centre-back role alongside Heaven in a bold tactical reshuffle.
Carrick was full of praise for the makeshift pairing, highlighting their composure and commitment as they helped secure a crucial clean sheet.
He said after the game via TNT Sports: “There was a lot of work in the last couple of days preparing the team, especially with the new back four. Ayden [Heaven] and Nous [Mazraoui] coming in were incredible.
The United manager also revealed that this unexpected move had not been planned for long.
He said in the post-match press conference: “They were fantastic. It was more meetings and talks really, and clips and a few discussions.
“It was just telling them to go and play, and tell them that we trust them. It was short notice but they are two fantastic players, and giving them the confidence to go and commit to it and understand, so you could give your best.”
Stepped up against a tough opponent
The last time United kept a clean sheet at Stamford Bridge was back in 2021, when Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof marshalled the defence.
Mazraoui and Heaven were not perfect but they got the job done. They combined to win nine of their 14 ground duels.
Heaven endured a nervy start against Cole Palmer. He tripped the England international right outside the box but the free-kick was blocked by United’s wall.
The 19-year-old gradually grew into the game, especially after Fernandes urged him to carry the ball forward and open up passing lanes.
As his confidence increased, Heaven began progressing the ball more effectively, helping relieve pressure on the backline.
Mazraoui is an experienced full-back but starting against an elite team in an unfamiliar role was not easy.
However, he put in a disciplined and brave display. When Marc Cucurella attempted a bicycle kick, Mazraoui quickly put his body on the line to win a free-kick.
With Harry Maguire expected to return next week, Mazraoui may not be required in central defence again, but the former Bayern Munich defender proved his worth when Carrick needed him most.
Stats from Sofascore.com
Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .