Carrick plays down permanent role talk after dramatic win over Liverpool

MANCHESTER, May 3 : Michael Carrick deflected fresh questions about becoming Manchester United's permanent manager, but conceded that Sunday's dramatic 3-2 victory over Liverpool that secured a return to the Champions League after two years away was one to enjoy.

Kobbie Mainoo struck late to seal the victory after Liverpool fought back to erase United's early goals from Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko.

Mainoo, whose career has seen new life under Carrick after he fell out of favour with previous manager Ruben Amorim, heaped praise on the interim boss.

"All the confidence he gives all the players, you want to follow him and fight for him and die for him on the pitch," Mainoo said.

Carrick has guided United to third in the table, a remarkable run that included victories over Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea and now Liverpool.

"It's been a good run, we've obviously beat some very, very good teams, and it's been challenging," Carrick said. "Listen, I love doing what I'm doing, it's a great position for me to be, and it feels pretty natural, if I'm totally honest, without being blasé, because it's a difficult role.

"But I kind of understand what it brings, and to be sat in this position is a good position to be."

Carrick stressed his focus had been on trying to get the best out of players, "and giving them the opportunity to go and perform."

"And then there's obviously the part of it today, seeing this place (Old Trafford) alive and bouncing at the end is a real joy and a pleasure to be in this position," he added.

Carrick praised the spirit of his squad.

"The pleasing thing to see that camaraderie and looking after each other, it was tested at 2-2, and seeing where they're really sticking in and fighting for each other, that's