Former Manchester United first-team coach René Meulensteen has backed Michael Carrick to turn things around at Old Trafford.
United have made an underwhelming start to the Premier League season, losing to promoted Hull City and conceding an injury-time equaliser at Everton either side of a victory over Ipswich Town.
While acknowledging that management is never easy, Meulensteen believes Carrick’s composed approach is exactly what the club needs – and sees this weekend’s clash against Manchester City as the perfect opportunity to make a statement.
Meulensteen backs Carrick approach
During an exclusive interview with BestBettingSites, Meulensteen addressed the Red Devils’ tough start to the campaign.
“At a massive club like United, when results don’t go your way or you drop points late on like they did against Everton, the media immediately tries to create a crisis,” he said.
“Michael’s strength is his ability to take that heat down and keep things level-headed.
“He knows it’s an okay start, but he’ll quietly demand a step up from the squad.
“Experienced players like Bruno Fernandes and Harry Maguire need to be the ones driving those standards on the pitch.”
Management a tough gig
On the relentless pressures of top-level football management, Meulensteen stated: “Management is an incredibly difficult job.
“When you’re a player, you only have to manage your own personal performance and preparation for the team.
“When you’re a manager, you have to manage every single player, every member of staff and manage upward with CEOs and technical directors.
“Every time you take a new job, you have to adjust to the organisation, the environment and see if the squad matches your expectations.”
United to beat City
Looking ahead to this weekend’s Manchester derby, the Dutchman added: “It’s not a bad time for United to play City.
“When Michael Carrick first took over, his first game was at home against City and everyone was impressed by that performance.
“Enzo Maresca’s City have made a strong start by winning games, but they are still finding their feet and playing differently than they did under Pep Guardiola.
“It’s a great moment for United to step up, show their teeth and deliver a convincing performance.
“I’m predicting a 2-1 win for Manchester United.
“I can’t see City failing to score – they’re too good and United are conceding.
“I’m still going to be a little biased, though: 2-1 to United.”
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Nicole Powell 
SportJustSport writers