Michael Carrick reacts to Man United decision over future as manager

Carrick says he was not surprised to keep his job despite eight games without a win; Chelsea trip on Saturday is his chance to turn things around.

Michael Carrick has responded to Manchester United's decision to retain him as manager despite intense speculation following a run of eight games without a win, including heavy defeats to Como and Bournemouth. The club's hierarchy held talks this week but opted to keep the 45-year-old in post for Saturday's trip to Chelsea, giving him the opportunity to reverse their poor form.

Carrick insisted he was unsurprised by the decision and does not require assurances from the Old Trafford hierarchy. "I don't need any assurances from anyone," he said. "I totally get the position, I understand the job, I understand the responsibilities, I understand what comes with that."

Chief executive Omar Berrada and sporting director Jason Wilcox appointed Carrick on an interim basis in January before handing him a two-year contract in the summer. Carrick believes his squad remain hungry despite their struggles. "The boys are hurting because we haven't won enough football games, but there's an intensity, there's a bit of an edge, there's a disappointment, there's a hunger to do better," he said. Kobbie Mainoo has returned to training, though Benjamin Sesko remains sidelined long-term.