Carrick remaining realistic over overhauling Arsenal

Can Manchester United really catch up with Arsenal?

It’s a question that continues to be asked by United fans amid the club’s current impressive form under head coach Michael Carrick.

Deep down, most realize it’s virtually impossible, but some United fans feel Arsenal are crumbling under pressure and so it can’t be completely ruled out, even though the current gap is 13 points, even though United have a game in hand.

Many have not forgotten that in 2012 their own team were eight points ahead of Manchester City with six matches remaining and ended up losing the title to Sergio Agüero’s memorable injury-time goal.

Part of that collapse included City winning against United and Carrick’s side not having to face the Gunners again.

The question was put to Carrick before the trip to Newcastle.

It would have been defeatist to say that this is not possible. But he believes the odds are stacked against United.

“Look, you can’t rule out anything in football, but we have to be realistic,” he said.

“We just have to try to keep winning games and see.

“Above us now there are two fantastic teams and there are very good teams around us.

“We had a good run but we are certainly not getting carried away.

“You have to be patient but you also have to live a little in the present moment.

“Wherever this takes us, we’ll just have to see. But we’ll keep attacking anyway.”

For now, qualification for the Champions League remains the main objective.