It seems United could benefit from the possible return of Cunha, who missed the game against Brentford with a hip injury. He was spotted in training earlier this week and Carrick has suggested that he could feature on Sunday. Luke Shaw also limped out of the win against the Bees that moved United to within one win of a return to the Champions League.
Carrick didn’t offer an update on the defender but he did say the squad was in good shape, with Matthijs de Ligt the only absentee with a back problem.
“Matheus has done a little bit of work so we’re hopeful,” said the United boss. “We’re not sure, but we’re hopeful. Mata [de Ligt] still a bit further and not involved in the game. We are in good shape.”
Carrick will be taking charge of his first United game against Liverpool and is looking forward to the occasion. He said that as a player, it was always the first match he would look for when the fixtures were released at the start of each season.
“One of my favourite games, without doubt,” he added. “It’s a standout game, there are big games and big rivalries we have with other teams but this is right up there.
“The history, ups and downs, excitement, entertainment and emotion makes it a really special game. It shows the improvements of the group and getting stronger to be coming into this game in such a good position.
“We’re fully aware of the situation in the league and how close it is. It’s a one-off game, they’re a good team, they won the league this [last] year. We’re treating it as a one-off game and the league position is what it is.”
“I have been hugely impressed with Kobbie, I’ve known him for quite some time,” he said. “He epitomises this football club, living and breathing it, coming through the academy. Everyone is over the moon, including me.
“Like all the players, I had to get that communication and understanding about his ups and downs. We just let him thrive. He has improved all the time, more confidence and believe. We just gave him that platform.
“There is loads more to come. He is in a great spot. Hopefully he is here for a long time with successful teams. That has to be the aim. It won’t be easy. The football club needs to be in a good place to push forward too.”