r00fie1
Well-known member
Do you still have belief in the quality you`ve got now?
100%! [Straight eye contact at reporter] – long pause [Eye contact unmoved]
Carrick – Southampton
100%! [Straight eye contact at reporter] – long pause [Eye contact unmoved]
Carrick – Southampton
21/09/2023
How was Carrick with the players at half time v Sheffield Wednesday. What did he do to make a difference to the second half?
I was quite calm with them to be honest. It [the performance] wasnt for the want of trying. It wasnt for the effort we weren’t getting. If anything it was that belief, that kind of feeling when your confidence is a little bit…….you`re not quite sure because things havent gone well. Its that real belief to really back yourself and fully commit to your decision and certain actions really. They did that second half and we were unlucky and probably deserved to get more from the game. We feel that anyway. The biggest thing I see [was] in the effort, the application, the attitude and trying to do the right things in certain ways. So just try to reassure them and back them and tell them to double down and back yourself even more…….and stop thinking about it so much [smile]. You can trust your instincts and [they] did that second half and showed what they are capable of in moments.
Two points from seven games. Not a great start. Can Carrick describe his mood and the mood around the club? Carrick sets the mood – “so what s your mindset”?
The mood is good. Obviously not happy with the points we`ve got, so I accept the situation in the position we find ourselves in. But it doesn’t change my mood. It doesn’t change my behaviour`s about the place, or with the players: they know what we expect and…...the biggest thing I can ask for is effort, attitude, application. In many ways we`re getting that. I cant question that. If anything its almost a little bit of….sometime`s you can want it [success] so much and there`s such a good group of people, that they want it so much I can say they are trying so hard…...sometimes too [they] can go in the opposite direction and hinder [performance] a little bit. At certain times [with] second guessing…..so its going a little bit the other way – as crazy as that seems [smile]. Not trying in effort, but taking a little bit more of a deep breath and relaxing and trusting themselves, because I know what they can do and they have showed up at certain times. I`m sure they`l show plenty more in the games ahead.
Do you still have belief in the quality you`ve got now?
100%! [Straight eye contact at reporter] – long pause [Eye contact unmoved].
Southampton? What does Carrick think they present?
Its obviously a big challenge. They`ve just came down from the Premier League and they assembled within that….a really, really strong squad, individually and collectively. You know they`ve got fantastic options, strength in depth, quality individuals…….those who can turn games in a moment. They`ve not had a fantastic start] in the last couple of weeks, results wise, but I think they`l be a strong team in this league for sure, for the rest of the season. Its a good challenge for us: tough game, tough challenge, but an exciting one for us to perform well and try and win.
What kind of game can we expect?
You [wry smile and chuckle] Its very hard to see here you know, you can never predict how its gonna go. We want a game where we play well. We`re good going forward and don’t give much away. On the other end of the pitch…..what kind of game….I think we`ve seen over recent weeks in the league there`s been low scoring games…..tight games….high scoring games. Its very difficult to predict. I know we`l be giving everything. I know we`l have good energy and a real intensity and a real fight within us to get the right result.
Southampton concede five at Sunderland, does that give Carrick hope there`s some goals to be had?
Its not so much them what gives me hope. Knowing what we`re capable of really and putting it together….putting the performance together, as a whole, as a group. Thats what gives me hope. The opposition – we cant control that you know. They`ve got their own agenda and their own things to work towards, but its about us really: putting a performance together and building the performance …..putting things in place that`ll allow us the best chance of getting the right result.
Russell Martin [Southampton Manager] is interesting because they want to have the ball all the time. But teams have shown recently ….that can be used against them. Is that interesting?
I just think that you can play football in so many different ways [smile]. The thing about this division is there`s a whole raft of styles throughout…...different ends of the league, so its not necessarily a certain style that proves to be successful. You can do it in different ways So, in terms of styles, I think its pretty clear …..the style [Southampton] their Manager likes and sticks with. Hes obviously a good coach, because they`ve got a clear identity. [His] beliefs show through his team. It`l be a good test for us. We feel we`re a good team in putting the performance together….so that`s our focus really.
You spent most of last season managing at the top end of the division . Is it the same job when you`re managing at the other end or is it different?
[Assertive] Ultimately its the same job, slightly different challenges at times. Of course, things come a lot easier for everybody when things are going well. That [includes] me, the players, the supporters - the club as a whole. But its the same job: we`ve got a really good group of people here that I enjoy working with, love working with…..the players and preparing them for the next challenge and the next test. They`re up for it. we`re up for it. In the end of the day, its about the next game…..and getting the right result.
Player confidence: how important is the psychology of the coaching and what you`re delivering?
For me, that part of it is massive…...both ways….when you`re winning, it all comes down to the confidence and trust. Its so clear. You know things are happening in slow motion…….it`s not happening in reality any slower. But in your mind its a lot clearer when you`re not quite there and you`ve nt quite got that feeling. Things [on the pitch] happen a bit quicker. Maybe a little more clouded…. I know, I`ve been there….. trust me [smile] plenty of times as a player, when your not seeing it [your performance] as you hope and you don’t feel quite as in control maybe as your own game would like. That`s natural and that`s what kind of goes on up there [points to head]. It doesn’t change your ability, your fitness levels or anything. It is what it is. Top level sports is one in the mind, so that`s a test, a challenge…..and at times like this you get tested, but you got to embrace that, to look forward to coming through it and working through it…..rising to that challenge.
Can you coach confidence?
Confidence comes from an element of success. That can be small gains throughout the game. That can be little games. That can be put [ting] in challenges. That can be a successful pass, or a successful dribble or whatever kind of little detail within the game. You can gain confidence quite quickly through little actions. But of course the big success is going ahead in games, winning games, scoring goals…..that ultimately gives you that next level. You can gain a positive boost of energy and certain positive things from all the little things that go on through the game. Sometimes it takes a bit of time to build that and you know, this year, you`ve got to work hard and do the simple things well…...until ultimately you get the success. Its not click your fingers and everything`s fantastic again. You got to go about it, accept it and do something about it. Sometimes it takes a bit of time and you`ve got to work through it.
Is being calm conducive to good results rather than ranting and raving at players when it isnt going well?
I don’t think its for me to say whats right or wrong. I do what I believe and I do what I feel in that moment and I am the character and the personality….naturally who I am as well. I deal with situations because that`s right for me or it feels the right thing at the right time. Do you get it right all the time? No. Probably don’t. But, you`ve got to understand where the players are coming from, mentally where they`re at. Players have given everything. I cant fault that. Whats there to get angry about? Its about working with each other, working together and coming through this. We will.
Injuries?
No change. Cant guarantee any returns to the weekend at the moment.
Clarky played 45 minutes yesterday. What did Carrick think?
Important milestone for him. [Big smile] Nice positive question, positive news. Clark has been out for a long time and been through an awful lot. we`ve sat here and told you a number of times, but to see him back on the pitch….it was a training ground friendly….there wasnt many people watching, but putting your kit on, putting on your shin-pads, getting ready…..warming up. Its a big step for Clarky so I was delighted for him to come through that. Its just the next step in his rehab and getting him back to fitness really…..he deserves that, he`s worked so hard for a long period of time, so its fantastic to see.
Are there different stages to {clark] getting back to that first team picture?
Listen! There`s no pressure from me at all, in terms of time wise……….the answer is we don’t know how long it will be. Clarky will find his way and his momentum and his rhythm in terms of getting back to full training everyday…….and hitting different stages that will happen naturally. we`re not chasing it by any stretch, or putting deadlines or dates on anything. Its just getting him back around the group, which he has done now for a number of weeks, and getting him back on the pitch.
Does Carrick want to see a more “solid” eleven players forming the team?
I think the partnerships in connections in wavelengths is the ideal scenario – of course it is. Sometimes that`s taken away…...by injuries….or trying different things, different systems and whatever that may be. Over time, consistency is key: consistency on individual level of performance, the little units within the team and playing your game within the game. It can be individual battles….midfield battles…...forward against defence….defence against the forwards. there`s all sorts of [battles]. I think ultimately with that connection and wavelength and understanding of each other – so your not second-guessing does help.But ….that does take time as well. That`s something obviously we`re working towards to get that balance right.
Just on “form”, what does Carrick think are the main reasons so far?
It doesn’t take a lot to be honest for it [results] to tilt the other way. I think we`ve been close …..in most games...and we should have definitely won more games. That`s not me looking at [them] with rose-tinted glasses, its pretty obvious we should have won. But, there`s all sorts of different reason: you know – little things in games can go the other way. That little dent in confidence. That little bit of where it kind of goes against ya. You`ve got to find a way of getting it back. There`s no easy way. No easy answer – straight forward at least – but we`l find a way.
Is your job now more about “coaching” or “managing” people?
Its both. Always is. You [Dom Shaw] kept trying to get me carried away last year [big smile] when we were winning games and that`s managing people in itself! It works both ways. That doesn’t change, its a little bit of a different direction. i`l find that right balance. I repeat again: in terms of the players and their effort, their attitude – thats there 100%. I cant fault that one bit, so I`m really excited what we can achieve together.
I remember Coventry. Did you have sleepless nights when it didn’t work. Do you sleep mistakes?
You`ve got a good memory [Laughter and smiles].
I wouldnt say sleepless nights…...I sleep well to be honest. There`s obviously things….there`s no hiding from the fact it becomes more difficult and more challenging, because we`re trying to find solutions, trying to find the answers why its not clicking, not quite working. {Smile] In terms of sleeping…..I do sleep well.
After last season, do expectations [this season] in the short term, have to change?
Not for me. My expectations and the groups expectations are to win football matches. That is it. Whether its this week, next week, the week after. Every game we play is to win football matches. In terms of what happens further down the line. The bigger picture…...that`s something I said to you last year…..that`s not something you can really control and look too far ahead. Its about what kind of happens now. Of course we plan ahead to a point....but really its accumulating points and results. I`m taking it step-by-step. So that [expectations] doesn’t change for me. I was saying the same things to you last year and that`s what I believe in. It either brings you success or it doesn’t. Its what happens game-by-game. I save kind of brain – space for that really in terms of “drifting” what might happen further down the line.
Comparing Sir Alex and Carrick dressing room manner?
Different Managers are different to everyone, because everyone`s got the wrong way of doing things and there`s not a set way of doing things, its not right or wrong. Some are more successful than others. I kept getting asked about the boss and obviously, he`s as good as you could ever be. I`ve obviously taken tings from what hes done over the years….but in the end, I am who I am. I`ve got to speak to people in a certain way, coming from how I see things in my manner and trust in what I do.
Do you always have this calmness in the dressing room, win, lose or draw. Has Carrick ever raised his voice?
Once or twice I have.
[Laughter].
That`s just picking the moments for what needs said or done at the right time and what I see really. But, it`l never be for someone trying and their effort and their attitude. For me I could never have a go [for] that.
Carrick was connected in the past with Premiership jobs. Is his mood when he goes home the same now as it was back then?
It doesn’t affect me. I come to work…...its not even work, its something I love doing and I`m fortunate enough to be in a position where I can do something that I love doing. I don’t take that for granted for starters. Not everyone can do that who`s fortunate enough, so …….one thing for me is coming in everyday and appreciating where I`m at. It is what it is, what it is [!]. I just treat every day like that and enjoy what I`m doing really
Josh Coburn. Can Carrick see him scoring the goals which “shoot” Boro up the table?
I`m not putting everything on Josh by any stretch. Hes here, hes a striker. Big part of the group. Big part of the squad. Played well the other night [against Owls]. Hes definitely got a part to play. Im not expecting Josh to score 30 to 40 goals this season, but hes got a part to play. He knows that, he`l expect that…...I`m looking forward to see how he develops and how he sees himself, because hes done really well. He`s trained great, hes improved. I feel that over the period of time that hes been here since pre-season and we`re looking forward to see what it brings in the next few weeks and months.
He was going out on loan [?] Had Carrick changed his mind?
I wouldnt say there was one moment. It happened naturally over time here. He trained with us to start with. We were really looking forward to working with him and seeing him close up, because I obviously hadnt been fortunate enough to do that since I`ve been here. Then along the injury came which hampered that a little bit pre-season. But he got fit, started looking really good when he got fit and up and running…...towards the end of the window he kind of just proved to be the right thing for him to be here. He wanted to do that. We wanted to do that. It worked out really well.
R00fie 22nd July 2023.
* Apologies for any mistakes - took me three hours to do this an Im knackered!
I was quite calm with them to be honest. It [the performance] wasnt for the want of trying. It wasnt for the effort we weren’t getting. If anything it was that belief, that kind of feeling when your confidence is a little bit…….you`re not quite sure because things havent gone well. Its that real belief to really back yourself and fully commit to your decision and certain actions really. They did that second half and we were unlucky and probably deserved to get more from the game. We feel that anyway. The biggest thing I see [was] in the effort, the application, the attitude and trying to do the right things in certain ways. So just try to reassure them and back them and tell them to double down and back yourself even more…….and stop thinking about it so much [smile]. You can trust your instincts and [they] did that second half and showed what they are capable of in moments.
Two points from seven games. Not a great start. Can Carrick describe his mood and the mood around the club? Carrick sets the mood – “so what s your mindset”?
The mood is good. Obviously not happy with the points we`ve got, so I accept the situation in the position we find ourselves in. But it doesn’t change my mood. It doesn’t change my behaviour`s about the place, or with the players: they know what we expect and…...the biggest thing I can ask for is effort, attitude, application. In many ways we`re getting that. I cant question that. If anything its almost a little bit of….sometime`s you can want it [success] so much and there`s such a good group of people, that they want it so much I can say they are trying so hard…...sometimes too [they] can go in the opposite direction and hinder [performance] a little bit. At certain times [with] second guessing…..so its going a little bit the other way – as crazy as that seems [smile]. Not trying in effort, but taking a little bit more of a deep breath and relaxing and trusting themselves, because I know what they can do and they have showed up at certain times. I`m sure they`l show plenty more in the games ahead.
Do you still have belief in the quality you`ve got now?
100%! [Straight eye contact at reporter] – long pause [Eye contact unmoved].
Southampton? What does Carrick think they present?
Its obviously a big challenge. They`ve just came down from the Premier League and they assembled within that….a really, really strong squad, individually and collectively. You know they`ve got fantastic options, strength in depth, quality individuals…….those who can turn games in a moment. They`ve not had a fantastic start] in the last couple of weeks, results wise, but I think they`l be a strong team in this league for sure, for the rest of the season. Its a good challenge for us: tough game, tough challenge, but an exciting one for us to perform well and try and win.
What kind of game can we expect?
You [wry smile and chuckle] Its very hard to see here you know, you can never predict how its gonna go. We want a game where we play well. We`re good going forward and don’t give much away. On the other end of the pitch…..what kind of game….I think we`ve seen over recent weeks in the league there`s been low scoring games…..tight games….high scoring games. Its very difficult to predict. I know we`l be giving everything. I know we`l have good energy and a real intensity and a real fight within us to get the right result.
Southampton concede five at Sunderland, does that give Carrick hope there`s some goals to be had?
Its not so much them what gives me hope. Knowing what we`re capable of really and putting it together….putting the performance together, as a whole, as a group. Thats what gives me hope. The opposition – we cant control that you know. They`ve got their own agenda and their own things to work towards, but its about us really: putting a performance together and building the performance …..putting things in place that`ll allow us the best chance of getting the right result.
Russell Martin [Southampton Manager] is interesting because they want to have the ball all the time. But teams have shown recently ….that can be used against them. Is that interesting?
I just think that you can play football in so many different ways [smile]. The thing about this division is there`s a whole raft of styles throughout…...different ends of the league, so its not necessarily a certain style that proves to be successful. You can do it in different ways So, in terms of styles, I think its pretty clear …..the style [Southampton] their Manager likes and sticks with. Hes obviously a good coach, because they`ve got a clear identity. [His] beliefs show through his team. It`l be a good test for us. We feel we`re a good team in putting the performance together….so that`s our focus really.
You spent most of last season managing at the top end of the division . Is it the same job when you`re managing at the other end or is it different?
[Assertive] Ultimately its the same job, slightly different challenges at times. Of course, things come a lot easier for everybody when things are going well. That [includes] me, the players, the supporters - the club as a whole. But its the same job: we`ve got a really good group of people here that I enjoy working with, love working with…..the players and preparing them for the next challenge and the next test. They`re up for it. we`re up for it. In the end of the day, its about the next game…..and getting the right result.
Player confidence: how important is the psychology of the coaching and what you`re delivering?
For me, that part of it is massive…...both ways….when you`re winning, it all comes down to the confidence and trust. Its so clear. You know things are happening in slow motion…….it`s not happening in reality any slower. But in your mind its a lot clearer when you`re not quite there and you`ve nt quite got that feeling. Things [on the pitch] happen a bit quicker. Maybe a little more clouded…. I know, I`ve been there….. trust me [smile] plenty of times as a player, when your not seeing it [your performance] as you hope and you don’t feel quite as in control maybe as your own game would like. That`s natural and that`s what kind of goes on up there [points to head]. It doesn’t change your ability, your fitness levels or anything. It is what it is. Top level sports is one in the mind, so that`s a test, a challenge…..and at times like this you get tested, but you got to embrace that, to look forward to coming through it and working through it…..rising to that challenge.
Can you coach confidence?
Confidence comes from an element of success. That can be small gains throughout the game. That can be little games. That can be put [ting] in challenges. That can be a successful pass, or a successful dribble or whatever kind of little detail within the game. You can gain confidence quite quickly through little actions. But of course the big success is going ahead in games, winning games, scoring goals…..that ultimately gives you that next level. You can gain a positive boost of energy and certain positive things from all the little things that go on through the game. Sometimes it takes a bit of time to build that and you know, this year, you`ve got to work hard and do the simple things well…...until ultimately you get the success. Its not click your fingers and everything`s fantastic again. You got to go about it, accept it and do something about it. Sometimes it takes a bit of time and you`ve got to work through it.
Is being calm conducive to good results rather than ranting and raving at players when it isnt going well?
I don’t think its for me to say whats right or wrong. I do what I believe and I do what I feel in that moment and I am the character and the personality….naturally who I am as well. I deal with situations because that`s right for me or it feels the right thing at the right time. Do you get it right all the time? No. Probably don’t. But, you`ve got to understand where the players are coming from, mentally where they`re at. Players have given everything. I cant fault that. Whats there to get angry about? Its about working with each other, working together and coming through this. We will.
Injuries?
No change. Cant guarantee any returns to the weekend at the moment.
Clarky played 45 minutes yesterday. What did Carrick think?
Important milestone for him. [Big smile] Nice positive question, positive news. Clark has been out for a long time and been through an awful lot. we`ve sat here and told you a number of times, but to see him back on the pitch….it was a training ground friendly….there wasnt many people watching, but putting your kit on, putting on your shin-pads, getting ready…..warming up. Its a big step for Clarky so I was delighted for him to come through that. Its just the next step in his rehab and getting him back to fitness really…..he deserves that, he`s worked so hard for a long period of time, so its fantastic to see.
Are there different stages to {clark] getting back to that first team picture?
Listen! There`s no pressure from me at all, in terms of time wise……….the answer is we don’t know how long it will be. Clarky will find his way and his momentum and his rhythm in terms of getting back to full training everyday…….and hitting different stages that will happen naturally. we`re not chasing it by any stretch, or putting deadlines or dates on anything. Its just getting him back around the group, which he has done now for a number of weeks, and getting him back on the pitch.
Does Carrick want to see a more “solid” eleven players forming the team?
I think the partnerships in connections in wavelengths is the ideal scenario – of course it is. Sometimes that`s taken away…...by injuries….or trying different things, different systems and whatever that may be. Over time, consistency is key: consistency on individual level of performance, the little units within the team and playing your game within the game. It can be individual battles….midfield battles…...forward against defence….defence against the forwards. there`s all sorts of [battles]. I think ultimately with that connection and wavelength and understanding of each other – so your not second-guessing does help.But ….that does take time as well. That`s something obviously we`re working towards to get that balance right.
Just on “form”, what does Carrick think are the main reasons so far?
It doesn’t take a lot to be honest for it [results] to tilt the other way. I think we`ve been close …..in most games...and we should have definitely won more games. That`s not me looking at [them] with rose-tinted glasses, its pretty obvious we should have won. But, there`s all sorts of different reason: you know – little things in games can go the other way. That little dent in confidence. That little bit of where it kind of goes against ya. You`ve got to find a way of getting it back. There`s no easy way. No easy answer – straight forward at least – but we`l find a way.
Is your job now more about “coaching” or “managing” people?
Its both. Always is. You [Dom Shaw] kept trying to get me carried away last year [big smile] when we were winning games and that`s managing people in itself! It works both ways. That doesn’t change, its a little bit of a different direction. i`l find that right balance. I repeat again: in terms of the players and their effort, their attitude – thats there 100%. I cant fault that one bit, so I`m really excited what we can achieve together.
I remember Coventry. Did you have sleepless nights when it didn’t work. Do you sleep mistakes?
You`ve got a good memory [Laughter and smiles].
I wouldnt say sleepless nights…...I sleep well to be honest. There`s obviously things….there`s no hiding from the fact it becomes more difficult and more challenging, because we`re trying to find solutions, trying to find the answers why its not clicking, not quite working. {Smile] In terms of sleeping…..I do sleep well.
After last season, do expectations [this season] in the short term, have to change?
Not for me. My expectations and the groups expectations are to win football matches. That is it. Whether its this week, next week, the week after. Every game we play is to win football matches. In terms of what happens further down the line. The bigger picture…...that`s something I said to you last year…..that`s not something you can really control and look too far ahead. Its about what kind of happens now. Of course we plan ahead to a point....but really its accumulating points and results. I`m taking it step-by-step. So that [expectations] doesn’t change for me. I was saying the same things to you last year and that`s what I believe in. It either brings you success or it doesn’t. Its what happens game-by-game. I save kind of brain – space for that really in terms of “drifting” what might happen further down the line.
Comparing Sir Alex and Carrick dressing room manner?
Different Managers are different to everyone, because everyone`s got the wrong way of doing things and there`s not a set way of doing things, its not right or wrong. Some are more successful than others. I kept getting asked about the boss and obviously, he`s as good as you could ever be. I`ve obviously taken tings from what hes done over the years….but in the end, I am who I am. I`ve got to speak to people in a certain way, coming from how I see things in my manner and trust in what I do.
Do you always have this calmness in the dressing room, win, lose or draw. Has Carrick ever raised his voice?
Once or twice I have.
[Laughter].
That`s just picking the moments for what needs said or done at the right time and what I see really. But, it`l never be for someone trying and their effort and their attitude. For me I could never have a go [for] that.
Carrick was connected in the past with Premiership jobs. Is his mood when he goes home the same now as it was back then?
It doesn’t affect me. I come to work…...its not even work, its something I love doing and I`m fortunate enough to be in a position where I can do something that I love doing. I don’t take that for granted for starters. Not everyone can do that who`s fortunate enough, so …….one thing for me is coming in everyday and appreciating where I`m at. It is what it is, what it is [!]. I just treat every day like that and enjoy what I`m doing really
Josh Coburn. Can Carrick see him scoring the goals which “shoot” Boro up the table?
I`m not putting everything on Josh by any stretch. Hes here, hes a striker. Big part of the group. Big part of the squad. Played well the other night [against Owls]. Hes definitely got a part to play. Im not expecting Josh to score 30 to 40 goals this season, but hes got a part to play. He knows that, he`l expect that…...I`m looking forward to see how he develops and how he sees himself, because hes done really well. He`s trained great, hes improved. I feel that over the period of time that hes been here since pre-season and we`re looking forward to see what it brings in the next few weeks and months.
He was going out on loan [?] Had Carrick changed his mind?
I wouldnt say there was one moment. It happened naturally over time here. He trained with us to start with. We were really looking forward to working with him and seeing him close up, because I obviously hadnt been fortunate enough to do that since I`ve been here. Then along the injury came which hampered that a little bit pre-season. But he got fit, started looking really good when he got fit and up and running…...towards the end of the window he kind of just proved to be the right thing for him to be here. He wanted to do that. We wanted to do that. It worked out really well.
R00fie 22nd July 2023.
* Apologies for any mistakes - took me three hours to do this an Im knackered!