Manchester United player Jose Mourinho praised the duo of Ashley Young and Michael Carrick for their work ethics during training.
The experienced players have not had as much opportunities under Mourinho.
Mourinho shocked everyone when he gave Young a surprise start during the clash with Liverpool on Monday night. The 31-year old put up a decent performance before he was pulled out late in the game. This was the first time he played in the starting role since January. Mourinho said he was happy with the attitude of Carrick, though he remains unused.
“I’m probably more happy with the Ashley Young situation because to perform like he did today, it is only possible because he’s phenomenal the way he trains. If you don’t play, you don’t have match fitness. If you don’t train in the top [level], you are not training to play,” Mourinho told MUTV.
Mourinho played Ander Herrera and Marounane Fellaini in holding midfield positions while he allowed Paul Pogba move forward. Carrick has fallen in the pecking order at Old Trafford but Mourinho insists that the 35-year old will get his turn.
“It is the same as Carrick. The day I want Carrick to play, the day I need Carrick to play, I’m sure that he’s going to answer because they train really well,” the Portuguese boss said.
United are set to face Fenerbahce next on Thursday. The Red Devils will play hosts to the Turkish side. Young will be hoping to get another call to play, while Carrick will be hoping he can prove to Mourinho that he deserves regular play time. Mourinho seemed contented with the goalless draw against Liverpool, and even hailed the team for their efforts at Anfield in a keenly fought match.