Chelsea defeated Manchester United 2-0 at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, deepening the pressure on interim manager Michael Carrick as the visitors extended their winless run to nine matches.
Morgan Rogers opened the scoring in the 50th minute with an assist from Romeo Lavia, before Cole Palmer converted a penalty in the 64th minute after Lisandro Martinez was sent off for a second bookable offence.
The first half ended goalless, but Chelsea took control after the break against a reduced United side. The hosts created several further chances and could have added to their tally, with Bryan Mbeumo striking the crossbar late on.
United’s players, including captain Bruno Fernandes, appeared dejected at full time as they acknowledged the travelling supporters. Carrick walked over to the away fans, who continued to sing his name.
Former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole, commentating on TNT Sports, said: “A penny for Michael Carrick’s thoughts, he’s done everything right by his club. There must be anger and frustration running through his bones because he’s a Man United person.”
Ex-Chelsea goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer noted that “it is easier to replace a manager than replace the whole team,” while emphasising that a senior player’s dismissal had been costly.
The result leaves Carrick’s position under increasing scrutiny as Manchester United continue to struggle for consistency in the Premier League.
