Carrick: Let's Protect The Keeper

Michael Carrick wants Manchester United to give David De Gea less work to do following the goalkeeper’s superb display against Liverpool.

The Spaniard, the club’s player of the month for October and November, was voted Man of the Match after Sunday's 3-0 win thanks to a string of superb saves at vital points throughout the game.

Carrick told MUTV: “We'd take that result every day of the week against Liverpool. But the scoreline probably didn't tell the whole story. David had to make some good saves and I think that was down to us giving the ball away at times.

"We were in control but if Liverpool had scored from one of those chances it could have changed the game. David's been sensational, he's stepped up again. Hopefully we can make it a bit easier for him next time."

Carrick played as part of a back three and afterwards praised his colleagues in the defensive unit, Jonny Evans and Phil Jones, who made their first starts since September 21 and October 20 respectively.

“I thought that Phil and Jonny both stepped in and did really well," said Carrick. "It's not so easy after being out through injury. They showed what good players they are, and made it easier for me because they’re top defenders. It's obviously a good day when you come out on top against Liverpool.”

The win over Liverpool gave the Reds a sixth consecutive victory and maintained the grip on third place in the Barclays Premier League. Carrick is not getting carried away by the run of results, but feels it has established a platform for the team to build upon.

"We're always looking up, we always want to get better and reach the top. We're in a decent position but we need to stay in touch. If we're up there later in the season we'll have given ourselves a great chance. We want to keep this run going and see where it takes us."