"We have only lost one match. Overall, the team is still in a good position. Defeats are always frustrating, but we will come back stronger in the next game," Carrick said after the 1-2 defeat at St James' Park on 4/3.

Manchester United entered the match with high expectations, having won six and drawn one of their first seven games under coach Carrick. In contrast, Newcastle had been in poor home form, including three consecutive Premier League losses.

Man Utd's chances of victory seemed to increase late in the first half when Newcastle's Jacob Ramsey received a red card. However, after a lapse allowed Anthony Gordon to open the scoring for Newcastle from a penalty, Carrick's side quickly equalized through a header from Casemiro.

Coach Michael Carrick applauds fans after Man Utd's 1-2 loss to Newcastle in matchweek 29 of the Premier League at St. James' Park, Newcastle, England, on 4/3. *Man Utd*

Despite their numerical advantage in the second half, the Red Devils failed to impose their game. They created a few opportunities, but Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee could not beat goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale. In the 90th minute, the visitors paid a heavy price. Will Osula launched a counter-attack, cutting into the center and curling the ball into the far corner, handing Man Utd their first defeat under Carrick.

The 44-year-old English coach admitted his dissatisfaction with Man Utd's performance, stating it did not meet expectations. "In terms of the game's flow, we controlled much of the time but couldn't capitalize effectively. Newcastle played well and deserved the win," he commented.

Carrick attributed the issue to technical quality rather than fighting spirit. He believes the players still crave victory but certainly need to improve their gameplay. "This is not a question of attitude or determination. Newcastle deserved to win, and we must learn from this match," he said.

The coach affirmed that Man Utd will utilize the 10-day break to prepare optimally for their match against Aston Villa on 15/3. Aston Villa is a direct competitor for a Champions League spot in matchweek 30 of the Premier League. The Red Devils currently sit third with 51 points, level with Aston Villa, and three points ahead of Liverpool and Chelsea. "We will prepare as we do every week. Wins or losses can affect emotions, but the important thing is to learn lessons. We still have everything to strive for," Carrick expressed.

Highlights of Newcastle 2-1 Man Utd.

Similarly, goalkeeper Senne Lammens acknowledged that Man Utd played below par, especially in the first half. "Physically and in terms of effort, it felt like we didn't do enough, not matching Newcastle. With their strong home crowd support, it made the game even tougher," he stated.

The Belgian goalkeeper also urged the team to quickly rebound and focus on the upcoming match against Aston Villa. "The disappointment today will linger, but we have a few days to reflect and find a way to react," he said. "Starting tomorrow, the entire team must train with high intensity to be ready to respond in the next game."

Hong Duy (via Manutd.com)