It has been interesting to observe how Manchester United have been assessed in the wake of Monday's disappointing home defeat by Leeds, and particularly the reaction to Michael Carrick.
What had previously been viewed as calmness in the technical area and a sense of stability gained from not making many changes, was suddenly viewed as inaction and questions were raised about why Carrick did not bring on any substitutes.
I guess Carrick would argue he hasn't done anything differently, which underlines a basic truth about Premier League football – results shape narratives.
To that end, Manchester United are not doing well. One win in four matches is their worst run since the point where Ruben Amorim was sacked. They also had a run of three games without a win that culminated in that shocking home defeat by 10-man Everton in November.
Tomorrow's trip to Chelsea is the perfect chance to turn the narrative back again. Their record at Stamford Bridge is not good. They lost on their past two visits, and have not won since 2020, with just two victories in their past 23 league games there.
The key question for Carrick will be if Lisandro Martinez is available, and if not, who is playing in central defence. Whether Carrick wants to answer is another matter.
Return to the Manchester United page later on Friday to find out what Carrick says in his news conference
