Michael Carrick holds his face during Manchester United's draw with Aston VillaImage source, Getty Images
Image caption,

Michael Carrick was given a two-year contract as Manchester United head coach on 22 May

BySimon StoneManchester United reporter

It was just after 6pm on Sunday, 8 November when the message landed. Manchester United were 4-2 down to Aston Villa, and Old Trafford was resigned to defeat.

"Be gentle."

The plea came from someone who knows Michael Carrick well, has worked with him and understands at first hand the pressures of life in the United goldfish bowl.