Michael Carrick is keeping his squad focused and motivated as Manchester United prepare for their Premier League clash against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light this Saturday (kick-off 15:00 BST). The interim head coach made it clear that securing Champions League football for next season is "a really good step" for the club, but emphasized it's "not the end at all" – meaning there will be no taking their foot off the gas in the final three games.

When asked about the team's motivation, Carrick highlighted pride, responsibility, and the honor of playing for a club with such passionate supporters. "It's about improving and evolving all the time," he said, pointing to the strong togetherness in the squad despite some players seeing less game time this season.

On his own future, Carrick remained calm and composed, stating "nothing has really changed" and that "clarity is important." He added, "I've said all along that I'm calm about it and it will get sorted out when it gets sorted out."

Turning to Sunderland, Carrick was full of praise for the Black Cats, who are pushing for a European spot. "It's really tight. They've had a fantastic season," he said. "It's not easy to come up, get promoted, and stay in the league, so to be in the top half and within touching distance of Europe is full credit to the season they've had."

Carrick also shared a personal memory of facing Sunderland, recalling the 2012 season when United missed out on the Premier League title to Manchester City. "It's in the past, but it definitely sticks in the memory," he said, acknowledging the passionate reception from Sunderland fans that day.

With the season winding down, Carrick's message is clear: every game matters, and the Red Devils will be playing for pride, progress, and a strong finish to the campaign.