Carrick says Man Utd have big week ahead that can be 'really exciting'

Michael Carrick says Manchester United have a big week ahead which can be "really exciting" after the disappointment against Newcastle.

United went into the Newcastle match with confidence riding high after six wins and a draw under Carrick but it turned out to be a bitterly disappointing night.

Carrick's side was sluggish from the start and despite a player extra in the second half they couldn't score at 1-1 which left the door open for a later winner for Newcastle.

But looking back, Carrick believes it is important to remain positive and look at the bigger picture as United seek a Champions League place.

"Certain things we wanted to do, and try to do and didn't do," said Carrick about the Newcastle clash.

"The boys have been fantastic, we've lost a game of football, it hurts me a lot, we are really disappointed for different reasons but we can't lose sight of the position we have put ourselves in as well.

"And so as much as I'm disappointed, we need to learn from it as it is a lesson for us as well in some ways. We can't lose sight of the bigger picture and we've got to be better for this."

And now with no game until March 15 against Aston Villa, United have a long period of time to get back on track on the training pitch.

"We've got to make the best of it, really. We've got to make it a help, really. And, as I said, about learning lessons and understanding why it was what it was and how it happened, how it developed, going against us," said Carrick.

"We've got to learn from that, so we'll look at that. And yeah, listen, it's another important game, it's a big week for us.

"It's one to look forward to. We're in a position now that we've put ourselves in and the boys have put themselves in and that can be really exciting. We've got to be really positive going into the next game and looking forward to it, because there's a lot to play for."