Carrick admits to under-par Man United performance in Sunderland stalemate

The Red Devils failed to breach a resolute Black Cats as the home side tried to keep their slim European competition chances alive, but could also not find a winner.

The result seals third spot for United but ends a three match winning streak while Sunderland occupy 12th position on the table.

"It was a tough game. Credit to Sunderland, we knew it'd be tough coming here anyway," said Carrick in the post match interview.

"We were a bit too deep at times and wasn't at our best. But to take something from a game when you're not at your best, that is a good trait what we're trying to build as well.

"There were obviously changes, sometimes we were trying to find our rhythm a little bit. I still quite liked a lot of the things that give us a foundation to play better at certain times. To take a point and a clean sheet is okay."

United face Nottingham Forest next Sunday before ending the season away to Brighton and Hove Albion.