Michael Carrick opened his pre-match press conference with a defiant statement lasting more than five minutes, making clear he believes he is the man to restore Manchester United's fortunes ahead of their critical Premier League fixture against Bournemouth.

The Manchester United head coach used the extended address to galvanise his squad, projecting confidence at a moment when the pressure on the club has rarely felt more intense.

The upcoming clash with Bournemouth carries enormous weight for United, with the result likely to shape the mood inside Old Trafford for weeks to come.