Michael Carrick: Man Utd players showed 'character' against Roma, but next is step crucial

United overturned a two-goal deficit to secure a thrilling 3-2 Champions League triumph at Old Trafford on Tuesday, ending a run of nine matches without a win across all competitions.

The result has provided a welcome boost for Carrick, who had come under mounting pressure following United's disastrous start to their Premier League campaign.

The Red Devils collected just seven points from their opening eight league fixtures, comprising one victory, four draws and three defeats. It represented their poorest return at that stage since 1986/87, when Ron Atkinson's side managed only four points.

United have since played nine league games and remain on seven points, leaving them 17th in the standings, following a 2-0 defeat at Chelsea.

"It's a win for us. It's a win for us as a football club, to see the supporters going home happy is what we live for, to give them performances and nights like this, so they can come back again energised, recharged and looking forward to the game at the weekend," said Carrick, via the club's official website.

"I think we've shown a lot of character as a group to weather what we've had to. You find out a lot about each other. The players will find out things about me and I certainly do about them, their character, what it means to them and what they're prepared to put in.

"Tonight was right at that moment. It depends what happens next. We've got to make the most of it and move forward, but I'm feeling a lot better about things tonight."

United host Aston Villa on Sunday before travelling to Anfield to face Liverpool. 

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