Michael Carrick praises Man Utd's 'personality' in dramatic Palace turnaround

United made the worst possible start when Maxence Lacroix powered in a fourth-minute header to stun the home crowd. Palace were sharper early on and United struggled to find rhythm in the first half.

Carrick's response at the break proved decisive.

"We spoke to them at half-time about being in that position, how we react, and showing that personality and the belief," he said. "Football is tough at times and this league is tough, so you're not always going to have it your own way. To come back like we did and turn the game in our favour is the biggest thing for me."

The turning point arrived early in the second half. Matheus Cunha spun away from Lacroix, who pulled him back. Although the contact began outside the box, it continued inside. Referee Chris Kavanagh initially awarded a penalty and, after a lengthy VAR review with Tony Harrington, upheld the decision and sent Lacroix off.

Bruno Fernandes kept his composure from the spot, sending Dean Henderson the wrong way to level the match.

Eight minutes later, Benjamin Sesko completed the turnaround with his seventh goal in eight games. It was his first start under Carrick, and the striker rewarded his manager's faith.

"We've been working closely with him, building that relationship and trust," Carrick said. "A lot is on Ben. He has put the work in and stayed positive. He is such a real threat. I am really excited where he can get to."

The victory meant United won for the sixth time in seven matches under Carrick and moved into the top three, their highest position at this stage of a season in recent campaigns.

Palace boss Oliver Glasner was frustrated by the penalty call.

"For me, the penalty is not a penalty," he said. "Maybe he could have given the red card with the foul outside the box. It's where the foul starts, but at the end you have to accept it."

On a day defined by controversy and resilience, Carrick's United showed belief when it mattered most.

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