Manchester United's recent trip to the Stadium of Light has left pundits questioning whether the squad's mentality is still a cause for concern, even after securing Champions League football for next season.

The Telegraph's Luke Edwards didn't hold back in his assessment, describing United's performance against Sunderland as "a reminder of how bad and limp" the Red Devils can be. Despite Michael Carrick's side having already clinched their spot in Europe's elite competition, they struggled to create meaningful chances away from home, managing just a single shot on target—and that came deep into second-half stoppage time.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily, Edwards highlighted Carrick's post-match frustration, noting that the interim boss was "offended" by suggestions there was nothing left to play for. "He said they are playing for a magnificent football club," Edwards explained, "but I do think they had switched off mentally. Sunderland should have won—they were sharper, hungrier, and stronger."

Edwards pointed out that Carrick used the opportunity to evaluate some fringe players, including Mason Mount, who showed "neat and tidy flashes but was outmuscled," and Joshua Zirkzee up front, who "has probably come to the end of being a viable option to lead the line for Manchester United."

While acknowledging United's "fantastic run" and Champions League qualification, Edwards warned that the squad's mentality remains a lingering issue. "They just looked flaky against Sunderland," he said. "If there's still that mentality in the dressing room, it raises the question of whether they are going to let Carrick down as well. It showed me they are still capable of throwing up the performances they did earlier on in the season."

Former Premier League striker Clinton Morrison echoed those concerns, adding: "When you are Manchester United boss, you cannot be saying a point at Sunderland is good. I still don't understand what they are waiting for to give him this job, though."