Former Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand has questioned Michael Carrick’s decision over his choice of centre-backs after Manchester United were forced to settle for a 2-2 draw against Everton.
Manchester United twice found themselves in front during the Premier League encounter at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, but Carrick’s team failed to protect their advantage. Ainsley Maitland-Niles struck late in the game to secure a point for Everton and prevent Manchester United from claiming their second league victory of the season.
The disappointing result means United have collected only four points from their first three Premier League fixtures. Their defensive record has also raised concerns, with the Red Devils conceding six goals in those opening matches.
Ferdinand believes Carrick should consider making changes at the heart of the defence, particularly by giving either Leny Yoro or Ayden Heaven an opportunity to start. The former United defender feels the pace possessed by the two youngsters could provide an important advantage at centre-back.
Neither Yoro nor Heaven featured in the starting XI against Everton, with Carrick opting for the more experienced pairing of Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez. Ferdinand acknowledged that Yoro has not developed as quickly as many expected since arriving from Lille in 2024, but he remains convinced that the young Frenchman can have a major influence.
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The former England international explained that he would always want at least one of Yoro or Heaven involved in the defensive line because pace has become increasingly important in modern top-level football.
However, Ferdinand’s former Manchester United teammate Gary Neville offered a less optimistic assessment of Carrick’s defensive alternatives. Although Neville shares the concerns surrounding United’s ability to keep opponents out, he does not believe the squad contains enough dependable options beyond Maguire and Martinez.
Neville also expressed doubts about Carrick’s late substitutions against Everton, particularly the decisions to take Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot off. He believes Manchester United need to develop greater stability at the back if they are to challenge consistently.
The former United captain warned that continuing to concede around two goals per match could prove costly as the season progresses. Carrick will therefore be under pressure to find a defensive formula that can provide his side with greater protection and help United turn promising performances into victories.
Oluwaseun Oluwadare is an Entertainment Blogger at Wiseloaded Media.
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