Kobbie Mainoo says he wants to “fight and die for” Michael Carrick after Manchester United sealed qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League with victory over Liverpool on Sunday.
The midfielder scored the decisive goal at Old Trafford after the Red Devils gave up a two-goal lead in the second half.
Benjamin Sesko opened the scoring five minutes into the game before Matheus Cunha doubled their lead. But Dominik Szoboszlai pulled one back shortly after the break before Cody Gakpo equalised in the 56th minute.
Mainoo restored United’s lead late on, though, firing in the winner to ensure they will finish inside the top five this season.
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Mainoo hails Carrick as Man Utd clinch Champions League spot
“To turn it around the way we have done, it’s a credit to the players and the manager,” he told Sky Sports. “We are just looking forward and still need to finish the season strong.
“We want to just keep on winning and winning.”
Mainoo’s fortunes have completely turned around since the midway point of the campaign when Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim. The youngster had fallen out of favour with the Portuguese coach and didn’t start a Premier League game until January, but his performances since then earned him a new deal earlier this week.
“It was difficult, of course, any time you’re not playing football,” he admitted.
“I just tried to look forward as much as possible, keep working hard and keep my head down to get these things from it.”
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Carrick has now overseen 10 wins in his first 14 games in charge. “It’s clearly a huge part,” Mainoo said of the interim manager’s impact.
“The confidence in not just me but all the players. You want to follow him and fight for him and die for him on the pitch.”. That’s what we showed today.”
Mainoo’s winner was the first league goal he’s scored this season. “I’ve not been around the goals too much but happy to be around it in this game, such a special occasion and special fixture.”
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