Finishing top name of the game for focused Carrick
United have managed to get themselves top of the table even though they have rarely been at their destructive best this term.
Ahead of local rivals Manchester City on goal difference, Alex Ferguson’s side also have two games in hand and remain unbeaten.
Yet Sunday’s draw at Tottenham epitomised their season. Obdurate defensively, they left White Hart Lane with a precious point despite doing little to threaten Heurelho Gomes’ goal and having Rafael sent off.
“Of course we want to be playing at our best because we feel it gives us the best chance of winning games,” said Carrick.
“You don’t want to struggle through every game and have to rely on individual magic to win. We want to be playing well on a consistent basis.
“But it does boil down to finishing on top.
“That is what we are striving for.”
Certainly, points secured against the odds at Sunderland, Aston Villa and West Brom this term may turn out to be vital in the final standings.
“We know ourselves when we haven’t played great,” said Carrick.
“But there is a determination within the squad. When you are not playing well it is a case of finding a way to win. We’ve been quite good at that over the years and it can be vital.’’
Having already been held to a draw at Birmingham, United will be taking nothing for granted against Alex McLeish’s men at Old Trafford on Saturday.
But three points would keep them top ahead of a trip to Blackpool, one of United’s two matches in hand.
Should the Red Devils win that one — and beat Chelsea in their other additional game on March 1 — they would really be in command of the championship picture.
Meanwhile Rafael has requested a personal hearing for his misconduct charge, which will be heard tomorrow but the Brazilian will definitely be suspended for the Birmingham encounter.
Rafael has accepted the FA charge of improper conduct for his actions after he was sent off in his club’s 0-0 draw with Tottenham on Sunday but wants to plead his case.
Potential replacements to face Birmingham include veteran Gary Neville, who has not impressed during his two most recent Premier League appearances when he was lucky not to get sent off on both occasions.
Ferguson’s other options could see Wes Brown or John O’Shea appear, although O’Shea only made his first reserve team appearance on Tuesday after missing eight matches with a calf injury.
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