Jamie Carragher believes Manchester United are “virtually guaranteed” to secure Champions League qualification after their 1-0 win over Everton.
United moved into fourth place with a narrow victory at Hill Dickinson Stadium, responding to a 1-1 draw at West Ham United in their previous outing.
The result marked another positive step under head coach Michael Carrick, who replaced Ruben Amorim earlier this season.
Hard-fought victory
Everton tested United with a series of second-half set-pieces, but goalkeeper Senne Lammens produced key saves to deny Harrison Armstrong and Michael Keane.
The decisive moment came after Carrick introduced Benjamin Sesko from the bench.
The striker finished first time beyond Jordan Pickford following a counter-attack involving Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.
Carrick praised the 22-year-old’s impact. “Ben is in a good place at the moment and we’ve had some really good talks about it,” he told Sky Sports.
“He’s patient and understands that. He’s going to be a big player for us for a long period of time I’m sure of that. We’ve got to manage that.”
On selection decisions, he added: “We’ve got some really good forward players and he’s made a big difference for us when he’s been on the pitch.
That’s a decision as we move forward. The balance has been really good between the forward players and we’ve got to continue that.”
Champions League outlook
United’s win, combined with dropped points for rivals including Chelsea and Aston Villa, strengthened their position in the race for Europe.
Carragher said on Sky Sports: “I think Manchester United are virtually a guarantee in that position.
“Yeah, I can’t see Manchester United not making it. Mind games! No, I do… I do believe that.