Carrick optimistic for new season

[Getty Images] New Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick says he is optimistic about the future and wants to bring "winning and exciting" football to Old Trafford. Carrick was given a two-year contract to take charge at United after doing an outstanding job after being appointed as interim boss following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim in January. United have qualified for the Champions League after a two-year absence and fans are looking forward to Friday's release of next season's Premier League fixtures with confidence. Carrick shares the feeling. Asked in an interview with the United We Stand fanzine if he was optimistic for the new campaign, he replied: "Yes, big time." Carrick, who won 12 out of his 17 games in charge of Manchester United last season, outlined the kind of football he is looking for. "Winning, exciting football is what comes to mind," he said. "There are all sorts of different ways to get there but a version of winning and exciting football. There's a responsibility to try and produce both." United have already agreed a deal with Brazil midfielder Ederson to join the club from Serie A outfit Atalanta when the World Cup comes to an end. They also hope to agree a deal with West Ham for Mateus Fernandes who, along with Crysencio Summerville is regarded as the most likely to leave London Stadium this summer following relegation to the Championship. United have prioritised strengthening the midfield positions this summer and Carrick understands why. "It's essential to have a strong midfield and a strong spine on top of that," he said. "We're certainly conscious of that." Although United begin their pre-season campaign against Wrexham on 18 July, the day before the World Cup final, Carrick does not feel the tournament itself will have a major impact on preparations for the new season, providing "everyone comes back fit". And he is thankful for the trust placed in him by minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, outlining the relaxed relationship between the pair. "Nothing crazy formal," he said. "It's just chatting. "Him picking my brains on a few things. General conversations about the players or club or feelings. It's not maybe how you think it would be. He's been good with me to be honest and left me to do a lot of the work and trusting me."