Michael Carrick defended his Manchester United players after they were held to a 0-0 draw by Sunderland in the Premier League on May 9. The interim manager rejected suggestions that his side lacked motivation following their Champions League qualification.
Carrick said he was almost offended by questions about whether United were on the beach after securing their European spot with a 3-2 win over Liverpool the previous week. He insisted the players prepared properly and showed the right attitude at the Stadium of the Light despite making five changes to the lineup.