Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has stood by Diogo Dalot after the defender faced criticism for conceding a penalty in Sunday’s 4-4 draw with Aston Villa.
Dalot brought down Alysson inside the box, allowing John McGinn to score from the spot in a match that saw United net twice in stoppage time.
The Portuguese defender was also jeered by some home supporters, raising questions about Carrick’s understanding of their reaction and whether Dalot should lose his place in the starting team.
However, Carrick maintained that the 27-year-old remained committed to the club, admitting his error while praising his overall contribution.
Speaking at his post-match press conference, published on the club’s website on Monday, Carrick said, “We’ve got to be careful with that, I think. I understand the frustration. I understand the disappointment of the supporters, so I get it. We’re all frustrated. We’re all disappointed. And the players are as much as anyone, I guarantee you that.”
He added in Dalot’s defence, “Diogo gives absolutely everything. He’s played in different positions. He’s played left-back. He’s played really well at times. He gives a penalty away today. That’s, you know… he knows that. Maybe he can do a little bit better. Alright, that’s part of it, he’s made a mistake.”
The former United midfielder also praised Dalot’s commitment and positive influence on the squad, saying, “But he cares an awful lot, and he’s given everything. So I like what he brings to the team.
“I like what he brings to the group. I like what he brings to the whole environment and the culture that we’ve got.”
On whether the defender would keep his place, Carrick said team selection was a separate matter, adding, “Picking the team and who plays the next game, that’s a whole different decision. But it’s a whole different game that we’ve got to look forward to now,” he said.
Asked if Dalot was handling the criticism, Carrick replied, “Yeah.”
United rescued a point against Villa with two late goals, but Carrick expressed disappointment that his side failed to secure victory despite a largely positive performance.
He said, “Yeah, there was a lot happened in the game there. It’s just the moments that are making it [difficult]. We’re kind of beating ourselves a little bit, with the moments really that we’re giving away and goals that we’re giving away in tight clusters, that are making it a lot more difficult.”
