Michael Carrick: Man Utd had to ‘dig deep at times’ in Sunderland stalemate

Michael Carrick admitted Manchester United had to “dig deep at times” to earn a Premier League draw against Sunderland.

A goalless stalemate on Wearside saw the Black Cats enjoy the best of the opportunities throughout, going close through Chemsdine Talbi and Noah Sadiki early in the first half.

After the break, United goalkeeper Senne Lammens was called into action to deny Brian Brobbey and the striker shortly turned provider for Lutsharel Geertruida, who hit the post.

Joshua Zirkzee had nodded over for the visitors in the first half, while a late surge at the death saw efforts from Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbuemo blocked.

United sealed Champions League qualification with victory over Liverpool last weekend and Carrick was focused on the positives after sealing a point.

He said: “It was a tough game. Credit to Sunderland, I think we knew it was going to be a tough game.

“We had to dig deep at times, it wasn’t our best, but to take something from the game when you’re not at your best is a good trait that we’re trying to build.

“There was obviously changes and sometimes you’re trying to find that rhythm a little bit.

“I still quite liked a lot of the things to give us the foundation to then be able play better at certain times.

“To take the point and the clean sheet for what it is, I think is OK.”

Carrick made five changes to the team that beat Liverpool, with Casemiro and Benjamin Sesko not involved on Saturday.

Providing an update on the pair, the United boss said: “Cas will be fine, it’s not a major issue. He’ll be fine next week.

“Ben we’ll just have to see. He’s been carrying a shin problem so we’ve just got to manage that and see what’s best for him.”

Head coach Regis Le Bris admitted there was some disappointment