Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has praised the growing influence of assistant coaches Jonny Evans and Jonathan Woodgate.
United entered a positive spell following Carrick’s appointment last month after Ruben Amorim’s dismissal. Carrick won his first three matches in charge, including victories over Manchester City and Arsenal.
The Red Devils followed that up with a dramatic late 3-2 win against Fulham, a result that kept them fourth in the Premier League and lifted confidence inside the dressing room.
While Carrick received much of the attention for the upturn in form, Maguire highlighted the importance of the backroom staff, including Woodgate, Evans and Steve Holland. Woodgate had previously worked with Carrick at Middlesbrough, Holland arrived with extensive England experience, and Evans had been Carrick’s former United team-mate.
Speaking to club media, Maguire explained how both former defenders had added value on the training pitch. He said of Woodgate: “He was a fantastic player. Coaching here, he’s come in and been refreshing. He brings great energy to the group, to the sessions.”
Maguire added: “He’s giving me tips and he’s going to definitely work a lot with the younger centre-backs like Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven and Tyler Fredricson. Even senior players like myself and Lisandro Martinez can learn from him. I’ve been really impressed.”
On Evans, Maguire said: “Jonny is great to have around. The way that he handles himself and the responsibility he had as a player, he can take that into coaching as well.”
He also revealed Evans had been doing extra work with young defenders after sessions, adding: “These are young, talented centre-backs and to have Jonathan Woodgate and Jonny Evans giving them little tips is fantastic for them.”
United are next set to return to Premier League action on Saturday when they host Tottenham Hotspur, aiming to extend their strong run under Carrick.
