Michael Carrick exposes Manchester United's most damning problem after lifeless West Ham draw

Manchester United’s interim boss Michael Carrick has pointed to a lack of creative sharpness in the final third as the primary factor in his side’s frustrating 1-1 draw against West Ham United. 

Despite securing a late point to extend his unbeaten run via a remarkable Benjamin Sesko goal, Carrick’s post-match comments highlighted recurring struggles in breaking down disciplined and compact defences.

The encounter at the London Stadium on Tuesday night saw the Red Devils control large portions of possession but struggled to make it count by converting that dominance to clear-cut chances. 

For the former United defensive anchor, known for his elite technical vision in his days, the lack of sharpness in the offensive third was the most disappointing thing for him in the game. 

“We were okay, we are a bit disappointed we weren't at our best,” he told the Premier League after the match against the Hammers.

“ It is those times when you aren’t totally at your best that you find a way. We’ve had five games now and we’ve been at a really good level. They made it difficult and we didn’t quite have that sharpness or that spark to find the answers too often.”

While the display against the hosts lacked fluidity in attack, Carrick was quick to credit his Reds’ mental fortitude for the duration of the game. 

For the second time in recent weeks, the Red Devils relied on a stoppage-time goal to maintain their momentum under the interim management.

• The equaliser: Sesko found the net in the 95th minute

• The record: the goal set a new record for the latest result-altering goal conceded by the Hammers at home.

• The streak: United remain unbeaten under Carrick, extending it to five matches. 

“Credit to the boys for the spirit to get a late goal when we needed it. It is a great quality to have. We’ll take the point and move on,” the gaffer added. 

The draw suggests that while Carrick has stabilised the defence and improved team spirit, United still have tactical issues when playing against low blocks. 

The predictable passing patterns observed during the game will likely be a focus of training ahead of their next fixture, another away trip, this time to face Everton.