Mainoo says Man Utd players are ready 'to die' for Carrick on pitch

Kobbie Mainoo says Manchester United’s players are willing "to die" for Michael Carrick after they qualified for the Champions League.

Parachuted in for the remainder of the season following Ruben Amorim’s acrimonious exit, the club’s former midfielder, captain and coach has overseen a stunning improvement since taking charge in January.

United increased their stranglehold on third spot and sealed Champions League qualification with three games to spare thanks to Sunday’s frantic 3-2 win against Liverpool at a rocking Old Trafford.

Mainoo struck the winner just days after signing new and improved terms until 2031 with his boyhood club, where his future had looked uncertain until Carrick breathed new life into his and the team’s season.

“To be able to turn it around the way we have done is a credit to all of the players and the manager as well,” the midfielder told Sky Sports.

“We’re just looking forward and we still need to finish the season strongly. This is not enough for us. We just want to keep on winning, winning and winning.”

Man of the match Mainoo said of his time on the periphery under Amorim: “It was difficult, of course, any time you’re not playing football.

“But I just tried to look forward as much as possible and keep working hard, keep my head down and you get these things from it, I guess.”

Asked how big a part Carrick has played in his turnaround, Mainoo said: “He’s played a huge part in it. I mean, the confidence that he puts not just in me but all the players.

“You want to follow him, you want to fight for him, and you want to die for him on the pitch and I feel like that’s what we’ve shown today.”

Carrick certainly furthered his credentials to stay in charge beyond the summer, with United adding a win against Liverpool to victories against the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal and Chelsea.

The head coach was made aware of Mainoo’s praise, and said: “I think one of the biggest things for me is trying to get the best out of people and helping players.

“Giving them the opportunity to go and perform and do what they’re good at, really.

“There’s that side and then there’s obviously being part of it today and seeing this place alive and bouncing at the end is a real joy and a kind of pleasure to be in the position.”