* Michael Carrick`s Call "We`re sitting here in a good place" [Article] *

r00fie1

Well-known member
A Summary of the key elements of what Michael Carrick had to say at his Thursday Media Conference - 8th December 2022

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It may have been almost a month since Norwich, but Michael Carrick hasnt let the grass grow under his feet. The first week he gave the players and staff time to take stock, reflect and prepare for the second half of the season. He made it clear that the team have been pushed physically and mentally over the last three weeks - "we`re already into a smooth rythym" and he`s "upped the tempo" in training. He also stressed the importance of preparing the players "mentally" as well as physically, Clearly, he wants the lads on top form and hit the ground running as we face Luton.

What about Saturday? -We dont want to stay in that "comfort zone". We need "to keep trying" and "get better". This is a signature of Carrick`s - never become complacent - always aim higher. He wants to keep up the momentum - There`s "a good feeling we want to keep going". Luton? Predictably - "they are tough to play against" and "make you work for it". But he`s ready for "whatever they throw at us". "It is what it is"! [Where have we heard that before?] Will he tweak the team selection? "Wait and see"!

Its been a good month for our younger players and the academy [including those involved in the behind closed doors games and the friendly at Hibs] - so what were his thoughts? Hayden Hackney: "I saw something in him" and was well aware of how he had progressed. "He`s been terrific....he`s a credit to himself and his family". Thats what you get for working hard. Its a "big boost for the Academy". "It gives the rest of the Academy hope" - it certainly does. The door is always open under Carrick.

Manager of the Month? "Its not about me. Its about the staff, the players and everyone together". We`ll judge that at the end of the season.

Grant Leadbitter: How is he doing? "He does invaluable work with the Academy...developing the younger boys. His role is "crucial" - "massive in that..(role)".

All set for the restart? "We`re sitting here in a good place".

Bring it on!
Up The Mighty Boro
(y)

©️roofie1 09/12/2022​
 
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Must admit, I didn’t know what to make of the Carrick Appointment. I was generally underwhelmed by a lot of the names we had been linked with after Wilders departure.

That was probably linked to the general apathy I felt towards us at the time after such an awful 9 months.

However, I absolutely love the bloke. Results do help, of course. But the way he talks, and goes about his business is exactly what we needed. Looks like a proper man manager and seems to have found improvement in a number of players since he’s came in.

Long may it continue!
 
The test will come when we get injuries and experience set-backs, as we inevitably will.
I have faith that Michael knows exactly what he`s doing.
He draws upon all his experience under people like Sir Alex Ferguson, Harry Rednapp, Jose and Van-Gal.
With 5 years at West Ham, 2 at Spurs and 12 at Manchester United - he`s worked with and played aside and against the best players in the world.
Inside, he`s a quiet, private, family man and attributes his calm and pragmatic approach to his Mam, Dad and Brother Graeme. His wife Lisa and the two kids are his rock.
His "care for the players" and awareness of individual needs within the team, are a far cry from the likes of Warnock, Pulis and Wilder.
He doesnt brag or have to crack jokes like he`s down the pub with the lads.
Having said that - he`s no easy touch and demands the highest standards of himself and everyone else around him.
He wont tolerate shirkers.
He admits, (I) "beat myself up" when he loses.
Almost like a perfectionist - he is never satisfied.
He`s the best gaffa [so far] we`ve had in years
 
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