Tottenham's misery continues with red card drama as Man United's stunning revival continues
Manchester United have now won four Premier League matches in a row under Michael Carrick and a season that was unraveling just weeks ago now looks full of promise.
United won 2-0 against Tottenham on Sunday (AEDT) to extend Carrick’s perfect start as head coach and boost hopes of a return to the Champions League.
The win will also further boost his case to become the full-time leader at Old Trafford.
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Bryan Mbeumo and Bruno Fernandes scored in each half after Tottenham went down to 10 men when captain Cristian Romero was sent off in the 29th minute.
Cristian Romero is dealt a red card. Getty
Romero launched at Casemiro and as the United midfield was left on the turf in agony, the referee had no choice but to give the Spurs star his marching orders.
It is the first time in two years that United have won four straight league games.
Carrick has transformed United's fortunes since he was parachuted in to replace the fired Ruben Amorim last month.
Initially given a contract until the end of the season - having previously had a three-game interim spell in 2021 - his impressive impact will likely put him in contention to keep the job as the club's hierarchy consider their long-term plans.
“I think Michael came in with the right ideas of giving the players the responsibility ... he's very good with the words," captain Fernandes said post-game.
Michael Carrick celebrates his fourth win in charge. Getty
“I think he still remembers what I told him the last time he was our manager for our last game. I was sure that Michael could be a great manager, and he’s just showing it.
“Michael has won everything here and he knows what it means for these fans, what it means for the club to win and how much is needed to win at this football club.
"I think that adds something special to the team."
Fernandes’ goal, with a controlled finish off his shin in the 81st, was his 200th goal involvement since joining United in 2020.
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United have locked down fourth spot and after moving up to 44 points, already exceeding their Premier League tally from last season.
They still remain 12 points behind Arsenal, who held their commanding lead atop the Premier League standings with a clinical 3-0 victory against Sunderland.
Mikel Arteta's men have powered nine points clear, with Viktor Gyokeres coming off the bench to score two goals in the 3-0 win at the Emirates.
Viktor Gyokeres celebrates a goal. Getty
Chelsea kept within striking distance of the top-four with a 3-1 win over last-placed Wolverhampton, while Aston Villa's slide continued with a 1-1 draw at Bournemouth.
Villa remain in third spot on the ladder, but are now nine points behind Arsenal.
At the bottom of the table, West Ham clawed closer to getting out of the relegation zone with a 2-0 win over fellow cellar dwellers Burnley.
Second-placed Manchester City will play Liverpool on Monday (AEDT).
