The Telegraph’s Luke Edwards suggested that Manchester United’s display against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light was “a stark reminder of how poor and lifeless” the Red Devils can still look.
With Champions League qualification already secured for next season, Michael Carrick’s team could not find a way to score away from home, registering their sole shot on target in second-half stoppage time.
“Michael Carrick said in his post-match press conference that the idea there was nothing left to play for offended him,” Edwards noted on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Football Daily. “That claim offended him because they represent a magnificent club, but I think they had mentally switched off.
“Sunderland deserved to win—they were the better side, sharper, hungrier, and stronger. I do think Carrick might have wanted to give some fringe players a look, though.
“He gave Mason Mount a chance—he was tidy with a few moments but got outmuscled. He also had a look at Joshua Zirkzee up front, who has probably reached the point where he can no longer be considered a viable leading striker for Manchester United.
“Their mentality still worries me, even if only slightly, because they’ve had a great run and are back in the Champions League.
“They looked fragile against Sunderland, and if that mindset still lingers in the dressing room, it raises the question: will they let Carrick down too?
“It showed me they are still capable of the same performances we saw earlier in the season.”
Former Premier League striker Clinton Morrison added: “I agree. When you’re Manchester United manager, you can’t say a point at Sunderland is good. But I still don’t understand what they’re waiting for to give him the job permanently.”